5 Ways ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) swung into theaters with high energy, introducing Tom Holland as a young Peter Parker navigating high school and superhero life. Fans loved its fresh take on the web-slinger, blending teen drama with Marvel Cinematic Universe action. But years later, some parts of the movie feel dated, while others still shine brightly. Let’s break down five ways the film hasn’t held up and five ways it remains a standout.

This listicle dives into the good and the bad, looking at how Spider-Man: Homecoming holds up in 2025. From outdated elements to timeless strengths, we’ll explore what makes this movie a mixed bag today. Whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan or just revisiting the film, here’s why it’s aged poorly in some ways and masterfully in others.

Dated Technology (Aged Poorly)

The movie’s tech, like Peter’s suit and Vulture’s gear, felt cutting-edge at the time. Smartphones, drones, and AI were exciting, but they now look basic compared to today’s advancements.

In 2025, AI like Stark’s suit interface seems less impressive with real-world tech like advanced neural networks. The film’s reliance on clunky gadgets makes it feel like a product of its era, not a forward-looking sci-fi adventure.

Relatable Peter Parker (Aged Masterfully)

Tom Holland’s Peter Parker is a believable teen, juggling school, crushes, and superhero duties. His awkwardness and enthusiasm make him instantly likable and grounded.

Even years later, Peter’s struggles with responsibility and identity resonate with audiences. His authentic high school experience keeps the character timeless, connecting with new generations of viewers.

Overreliance on Stark (Aged Poorly)

The heavy involvement of Tony Stark ties the film too closely to the MCU’s Iron Man era. His mentorship overshadows Peter’s independence, making the story feel less self-contained.

Looking back, this reliance on Stark feels like a crutch, especially as the MCU has moved on. A standalone Spider-Man story would have given Peter more room to grow on his own.

Strong Villain in Vulture (Aged Masterfully)

Michael Keaton’s Vulture is a grounded, compelling antagonist with clear motivations. His blue-collar struggles and desperation make him more than a generic bad guy.

The character’s depth still holds up, as Keaton’s performance adds layers to a villain who’s both menacing and sympathetic. Vulture remains one of the MCU’s best villains, keeping the film engaging.

Weak High School Drama (Aged Poorly)

The high school subplots, like Peter’s rivalry with Flash, feel shallow and cliched. The teen drama lacks depth, leaning on outdated stereotypes like the mean jock.

In 2025, these tropes feel tired compared to more nuanced teen stories in recent media. The film’s school scenes don’t capture the complexity of modern high school life.

Dynamic Action Sequences (Aged Masterfully)

The film’s action, like the Washington Monument rescue and the ferry scene, is thrilling and creative. Spider-Man’s web-slinging feels fluid and true to the comics.

These sequences still look impressive, with practical effects and choreography that hold up. The stakes feel real, making the action a highlight that keeps viewers hooked.

Predictable Plot Twists (Aged Poorly)

The big reveal about Vulture’s identity feels less surprising now. The foreshadowing is heavy-handed, and modern audiences spot the twist early.

With more sophisticated storytelling in recent superhero films, this plot device feels simplistic. It lacks the shock value it aimed for, making the narrative less engaging.

Authentic Character Chemistry (Aged Masterfully)

The cast’s interactions, especially between Peter and Ned, feel natural and fun. Their friendship grounds the film in real emotion, balancing the superhero chaos.

This chemistry still shines, with Holland and Jacob Batalon delivering performances that feel fresh. Their bond adds heart, making the movie rewatchable for its human moments.

Overuse of CGI (Aged Poorly)

The heavy CGI in some scenes, like the final battle, looks less polished today. The digital effects feel artificial compared to modern standards in superhero films.

In 2025, audiences expect seamless visuals, and Homecoming’s reliance on CGI can feel jarring. Subtler effects would have kept the film looking sharper over time.

Timeless Coming-of-Age Story (Aged Masterfully)

Peter’s journey from eager kid to responsible hero captures the essence of Spider-Man. His growth feels earned, rooted in personal sacrifice and hard lessons.

This arc remains powerful, as it taps into universal themes of growing up. The film’s focus on Peter’s moral development ensures it stays relevant and inspiring.

What’s your take on how Spider-Man: Homecoming has aged—share your thoughts in the comments!