Spider-Man: Brand New Day is out this week and performing excellently at the box office. Before fans see it, however, there’s one crucial point to understand about the latest MCU installment.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, who previously directed the MCU film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, released in 2021. The movie stars Tom Holland as he reprises his role as Peter Parker/Spider-Man. Emmy winner Zendaya and Jacob Batalon are also expected to return for the sequel. They will be joined by cast members Sadie Sink (Stranger Things), Liza Colón-Zayas (The Bear), Jon Bernthal, and Tillman, among others.

Brand New Day is anticipated to be one of the most successful movies in the MCU, and rightfully so. The film is, in my opinion, the best MCU portrayal of Peter Parker/Spider-Man we’ve ever seen, but there are a few important things to mention before watching it.

One important thing to know before watching Spider-Man: Brand New Day

We won’t delve into any spoilers about the film, keeping it as vague as possible for those who haven’t seen it. Before checking out the latest Spider-Man, though, it’s crucial to note that this movie leans heavily into the “grounded” aspect of Spider-Man’s character. You won’t see any cosmic-level threats appearing; the Avengers aren’t going to summon Spider-Man for a secret outer space mission, and he won’t be trying to save the entire multiverse from a crisis.

And honestly? That makes the movie all the better. Spider-Man has always excelled when he is just a friendly neighborhood hero, interacting with people in New York City. Director Destin Daniel Cretton understands this fully and delivers a story centered on Peter navigating his life in the city as a lonely adult, the city’s appreciation of Spider-Man, and threats that feel low-stakes enough to remain within the confines of the city.

Moreover, Brand New Day exemplifies a proper living, breathing comic book world in movie form. There are numerous cameos in Brand New Day, including appearances by Frank Castle/The Punisher, Dr. Bruce Banner/The Incredible Hulk, and various villains and heroes like Scorpion, The Hand, and more.

However, these introductions never feel overstuffed or forced. Instead, it feels like you’re witnessing a genuine comic book come to life. When Peter needs assistance with something, he simply visits Bruce Banner. He randomly encounters Frank Castle while stopping a crime or comes across The Hand in a building somewhere. It’s a delightful touch that helps make Spider-Man’s world feel more aligned with the comics and vibrant while avoiding excessive references.