Spider-Man 3

May I have your attention please: The summer movie season has just begun. In case you just crawled out from under a rock, Spider-Man is out again defending his beloved New York City. And this time around, he's got his hands full.

While it's no match to its predecessor Spider-Man 2, the third (and final?) installment does justice to the key characters while introducing a few new faces. Back for the third film are Tobey Maguire (Peter Parker/Spider-Man), Kirsten Dunst (Mary Jane Watson), and James Franco (Harry Osborn/New Goblin). All are in full form as they try to come to terms with the events that have transpired over the course of the first two films.

The story begins with the webbed hero being at an all time high in popularity. Of course, that simply can't last as Spider-Man must face four - yes four- villains this time around. First up is a mysterious symbiote from outer space that attaches to a human host. The symbiote finds its way to Spidey, which generates a more bad boy personae for our hero.

Next up is Flint Marko/Sandman, played by the versatile Thomas Haden Church. Discovered to be the real murderer of Ben Parker, Marko stumbles upon an experiment that changes his DNA to sand. Needless to say, the special effects are spectacular. Not to be outdone, Eddie Brock/Venom, played surprisingly well by Topher Grace, takes revenge on Peter after some less than stellar occurrences at the Daily Bugle.

Last, but of course not least, is the revenge story we've all been waiting for. Finally, after stewing over the death of his father, Harry Osborn finally takes his revenge against Pete. It's hard to believe, but the story of Peter and Harry's friendship outshines the love story between Pete and Mary Jane.

A could be problem for the film is the enormous scope and story matter. There is a lot to cram into the 140 minute running time, but due to great direction and fine editing, it all works out in the end. Don't get me wrong, the film has some flaws, but its still amazing (pun completely intended). A-.