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“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” Enters The Money-Verse (with Griffin Newman)

Aug 6, 2026 · 1h 54m

Summary

Hosts Richard Lawson and Alison Romer, joined by guests Griffin Newman and Ben Frisch, analyze the record-breaking box office success of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. They discuss the film’s marketing, the significance of Tom Holland and Zendaya’s star power, and the integration of John Bernthal’s Punisher as a cautionary figure. The episode also explores the broader health of the theatrical industry and the enduring appeal of sincere superhero storytelling.

Topics discussed

Intro, Marie Barty joke, and mailbag announcement Spider-Man: No Way Home box office records and theater experience Spider-Man's relatability, sincerity, and character analysis Nostalgia for previous Spider-Men and the Punisher's MCU integration Jon Bernthal's role, mentorship themes, and contractual details Tom Holland's career trajectory and future projects Sadie Sink in X-Men and the stigma of joining the MCU X-Men '97 review: Animation, action, and plot mechanics X-Men '97 themes: Isolation, Damage Control, and post-credits Outro, Reacher recommendation, and Allison's favorite movie
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