Disney+ - Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man: A Bold New Chapter in the Marvel Universe

By Mulder, 30 december 2024

The beloved web-slinger is back in action in an animated series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, the first episode of which will air on Disney+ on January 29, 2025, notably in France and the USA. Created by Jeff Trammell, the series promises to reimagine the early days of Peter Parker in a unique tale of nostalgia and innovation, marking the twelfth TV series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With its fascinating alternate timeline and homage to the classic comic-book style of cult classic The Amazing Spider-Man, the series is set to become an important addition to Marvel Studios Animation's repertoire.

Set in an alternate universe, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man explores a new version of Peter Parker's origin story. Here, Norman Osborn, played by Colman Domingo, takes on the role of mentor usually associated with Tony Stark. Osborn's advice is far from altruistic, however, as screenwriter Jeff Trammell hints at a morally ambiguous relationship that could lead Peter down dangerous paths. Hudson Thames reprises his role as the young Spider-Man, a 15-year-old high-school student facing the difficulties of adolescence and the new responsibilities his spider powers bring. This alternative version links Parker's origin to the mystical, with his powers arising from an encounter between Dr. Strange and Venom, a creative departure from the traditional science-focused story.

The series boasts an all-star cast including Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock/Daredevil, Hugh Dancy as Otto Octavius and Vincent D'Onofrio reprising his role as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin. Other notable characters include Harry Osborn, Nico Minoru and Lonnie Lincoln, each adding layers to Parker's formative journey. Animation is handled by Polygon Pictures, blending 3D cel-shading techniques with the iconic visual style of Stan Lee and Steve Ditko's early comics. Spider-Man's costumes range from a cobbled-together version to a sleek outfit designed by Oscorp, each reflecting his evolution as a hero.

The series' creative team brings together some of Marvel's most talented visionaries, including supervising director Mel Zwyer and episode director Stu Livingston. Executive producers Kevin Feige, Brad Winderbaum, Louis D'Esposito and Dana Vasquez-Eberhardt ensure that the series fits into the narrative of the MCU while offering new perspectives. Composer duo Leo Birenberg and Zach Robinson enrich the experience with music that blends classic Spider-Man themes with modern, dynamic energy.

Originally announced as Spider-Man: Freshman Year at the Disney+ Day event in November 2021, the series changed its title to Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man in December 2023, signaling a shift towards a more intimate, community-centric approach. Fans were treated to teasers and character illustrations at various events, including San Diego Comic-Con and the D23 Expo, anticipating the series' groundbreaking story.

The series also embraces Marvel's multiverse concept, taking advantage of its freedom to introduce characters and storylines beyond the constraints of the MCU's sacred timeline. This approach allows for the inclusion of a vast array of characters, from iconic figures like Dr Strange and Tony Stark to lesser-known adversaries like Scorpion, Rhino and White Rabbit. Marvel Studios Animation has confirmed a second season, initially entitled Spider-Man: Sophomore Year, ensuring the continuation of this exciting story.

Marvel fans and newcomers alike can look forward to a series that captures the essence of Spider-Man while breaking new ground. Focusing on Peter Parker's dual life as a teenager and superhero, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man promises a heartfelt and exciting exploration of responsibility, mentorship and heroism. As part of phase five of the MCU, this animated masterpiece should find its way into the hearts of viewers worldwide, redefining what it means to be the Neighborhood Spider-Man.

Synopsis :
How Peter Parker became Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, in a style reminiscent of the character's early comics.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
Created by Jeff Trammell
Based on Spider-Man by Stan Lee, Steve Ditko
Written by Jeff Trammell
Starring Hudson Thames, Colman Domingo, Eugene Byrd, Grace Song, Zeno Robinson, Hugh Dancy, Charlie Cox, Kari Wahlgren, Paul F. Tompkins
Music by Leo Birenberg, Zach Robinson
Executive producers : Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Dana Vasquez-Eberhardt, Jeff Trammell
Production company : Marvel Studios Animation
Network : Disney+
Release : January 29, 2025 (France, United States)
Running Times : 30 minutes