Watch The Amazing Spider-Man
- TV-PG
- 1977
- 2 Seasons
-
6.2 (2,761)
The Amazing Spider-Man was a live-action television series that aired on CBS from 1977 to 1979. The show starred Nicholas Hammond as Peter Parker, the mild-mannered photographer who secretly battles crime as the web-slinging superhero, Spider-Man. The premise of the show is similar to that of the comic book series, with Peter Parker gaining his powers after being bitten by a radioactive spider. As Spider-Man, he uses his superhuman strength, agility, and web-slinging abilities to fight crime and protect the citizens of New York City.
Throughout the series, we see Spider-Man take on a variety of villains, including the Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, and the Rhino. We also see Peter Parker navigate his personal life, dealing with his relationships with his Aunt May (played by Irene Tedrow) and his love interest, reporter Julie Masters (played by Ellen Bry).
One of the unique aspects of The Amazing Spider-Man is the way the show depicted Spider-Man's web-slinging abilities. Rather than shooting webs from a device he created himself, as in the comics, the show portrays Spider-Man producing webs through a small device attached to his wrist. This change was a result of budgetary constraints, as the show's creators were unable to afford the complex special effects required to show Spider-Man creating his own webs.
Another notable aspect of the series is the portrayal of J. Jonah Jameson, the editor of the Daily Bugle newspaper. Played by Robert F. Simon, Jameson is depicted as a gruff and abrasive character who is constantly at odds with both Peter Parker and Spider-Man. In many episodes, Jameson's unrelenting attacks on Spider-Man serve as a central conflict, with Peter Parker often struggling to balance his loyalty to the paper with his responsibility to protect the city.
The show also features a number of notable guest stars, including Ron Ely (who played Tarzan in a 1960s television series) as the villainous Swarm and Joanna Cameron (who starred in a rival superhero show, The Secrets Of Isis) as a love interest for Peter Parker.
In addition to its action and adventure elements, The Amazing Spider-Man also explores themes of responsibility and the struggle between good and evil. As Spider-Man faces down his various nemeses, he grapples with the weight of his powers and the choices he must make to protect those he loves.
Ultimately, The Amazing Spider-Man is a fun and engaging superhero adventure series that captures the spirit of the iconic comic book character. Despite its budgetary limitations and dated special effects, the show remains a beloved piece of Spider-Man lore and a must-see for fans of the web-slinger.