Critics Slam Marvel’s Latest Offering ‘Madame Web’ as a Disjointed Mess

In a scathing critique, Benjamin Lee of The Guardian delivers a damning assessment of Marvel’s newest addition to its cinematic universe, “Madame Web.” Released on February 14th, the film has already drawn ire from critics for its lackluster execution and confused narrative.

Lee begins his review by contextualizing the superhero movie landscape, highlighting the oversaturation of the genre throughout the 2010s. He describes how this abundance of superhero films led to a decline in creativity, resulting in audiences craving something fresh and innovative.

“Madame Web,” intended as an expansion of the Spider-Man universe, fails to deliver on its promise, according to Lee. He notes the film’s convoluted plot, which attempts to introduce a young paramedic played by Dakota Johnson, without a clear connection to Spider-Man himself. Lee criticizes the film’s attempt to rebrand itself as a gritty thriller, citing its lack of suspense and believability.

The review also delves into the film’s technical aspects, highlighting issues with the script, direction, and performances. Johnson’s portrayal of the lead character is singled out for criticism, described as disengaged and lacking in energy. Lee also points out glaring inconsistencies in character arcs and references to Spider-Man throughout the film.

One of the most noteworthy criticisms is directed at the film’s heavy-handed product placement, with Pepsi making conspicuous appearances at key moments. Lee describes this as one of the most egregious examples of product placement in recent memory, detracting from the overall viewing experience.