5 Ways ‘The Amazing Spider-Man 2’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014) hit theaters with high expectations, swinging in as a sequel to reboot the Spider-Man franchise with Andrew Garfield as the web-slinger. It aimed to balance action, romance, and a deeper dive into Peter Parker’s world, but not all of it landed as hoped, and time hasn’t been kind to every aspect.

Over a decade later, some elements feel dated or clunky, while others have gained new appreciation, especially with the multiverse craze and Garfield’s return in Spider-Man: No Way Home. Here’s a look at five ways the movie hasn’t held up and five ways it still shines.

Overstuffed Plot (Aged Poorly)

The movie tries to cram in too many storylines. Peter’s romance with Gwen, his parents’ mystery, Harry Osborn’s transformation, and Electro’s rise all compete for attention, leaving little room for depth. This cluttered narrative feels chaotic now, especially compared to tighter superhero films. Fans wanted a focused Spider-Man story, but the film’s ambition to set up a larger universe overshadows its core, making it feel like a setup for unmade sequels.

Andrew Garfield’s Performance (Aged Masterfully)

Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man remains a highlight. His blend of wit, vulnerability, and charm captures Peter Parker’s essence, making him relatable and engaging. Time has only boosted appreciation for his take, especially after No Way Home showcased his emotional depth. Fans now see Garfield as a standout Spider-Man, carrying the film through its weaker moments with heart and humor.

Dated Visual Effects (Aged Poorly)

The CGI, especially Electro’s glowing blue design, looks off by today’s standards. The effects feel more cartoonish than immersive, pulling viewers out of the action. Modern superhero films have raised the bar for visuals, and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 struggles to keep up. Scenes like the final battle lack the polish of newer blockbusters, making them feel like relics of early 2010s tech.

Peter and Gwen’s Chemistry (Aged Masterfully)

The romance between Peter and Gwen Stacy, played by Emma Stone, feels real and heartfelt. Their scenes together crackle with genuine emotion, grounding the film’s wilder moments. Years later, this relationship still resonates, with fans praising the authentic connection. It’s a testament to Garfield and Stone’s real-life chemistry, making their love story a timeless strength.

Forced Villain Arcs (Aged Poorly)

Electro and Green Goblin get rushed origins that feel unearned. Max Dillon’s shift from nerdy fan to vengeful villain happens too fast, and Harry’s transformation lacks buildup. These arcs feel weaker now, as audiences expect more nuanced villains. The film’s need to juggle multiple antagonists dilutes their impact, leaving them as forgettable obstacles.

Emotional Weight of Gwen’s Fate (Aged Masterfully)

Gwen’s tragic end hits hard and remains one of the film’s boldest choices. The buildup and execution carry a gut-punch impact that lingers with viewers. This moment has aged beautifully, with fans citing it as a defining scene in Spider-Man’s cinematic history. It respects the comics while giving Peter’s journey a raw, emotional edge.

Weak Humor Attempts (Aged Poorly)

The film’s humor often falls flat, with awkward one-liners and forced gags. Moments like Electro’s dubbed-over quips feel out of place in serious scenes. Today’s audiences prefer sharper, character-driven comedy, and the movie’s attempts feel dated. The tonal shifts clash, making the lighter moments more cringe than clever.

Spider-Man’s Heroic Spirit (Aged Masterfully)

Peter’s determination to protect New York shines through, especially in smaller moments like inspiring a bullied kid. His never-give-up attitude captures Spider-Man’s core. This resonates even more now, as fans appreciate Garfield’s take on a hopeful, resilient hero. It’s a reminder of why Spider-Man endures, no matter the era.

Underdeveloped Supporting Cast (Aged Poorly)

Characters like Aunt May and Felicia Hardy get little to do. The film sidelines them to focus on Peter, leaving their roles feeling thin and pointless. Modern superhero films give supporting characters more depth, making this flaw stand out. Fans now notice how much potential was wasted on these underdeveloped figures.

Iconic Suit Design (Aged Masterfully)

The Spider-Man suit in this film is a near-perfect nod to the comics. Its bright colors, big red spider emblem, and sleek look pop on screen. Time has been kind to this design, with fans calling it one of the best live-action Spider-Man suits. It stands out as a bold, faithful take that still looks fresh.

What’s your take on The Amazing Spider-Man 2—which parts do you think aged well or fell flat? Share your thoughts in the comments!