‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Casts New Villain

A brand new villain has been added into the mix for Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

According to Deadline, Marvin Jones III, known for his role in *Black Lightning*, will be playing the villain Tombstone in the next *Spider-Man: No Way Home* movie.

Lonnie Lincoln, who goes by the name Tombstone, is a powerful crime boss and villain in Marvel Comics. He’s known for his superhuman strength and frequently clashes with superheroes like Spider-Man and Daredevil.

This character first appeared in the animated film *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* in 2018. Now, *Brand New Day* will be the first time audiences see him brought to life in a live-action movie.

Although it’s a different version, Michael D. Jones III is returning as Tombstone, having previously provided the voice for the character in the animated film *Into the Spider-Verse*.

In the movie, Tombstone works as one of Kingpin’s bodyguards. He shows up early on when Kingpin kills Spider-Man (Peter Parker) at Alchemax, and again later during the attack on Aunt May’s home.

Sources say Keith David Jones III will reprise his role as Tombstone in the next *Spider-Verse* movie, *Beyond the Spider-Verse*, which is currently planned to come out in June 2027.

Filming for *Brand New Day* in Glasgow, Scotland, has been temporarily halted for just over a week. This pause occurred after Tom Holland, known for his role as Spider-Man, was injured on set last Friday, September 10th.

The actor was taken to a nearby hospital after an accident during a stunt. He was found to have a mild concussion and has since been discharged.

The upcoming movie, *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*, will be directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, who also directed *Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings*. It’s currently planned for release in theaters on July 31, 2026.

Every Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie, Ranked From Worst to Best

37. Eternals

I never would have guessed that a Marvel movie directed by an Academy Award winner and inspired by Jack Kirby’s ambitious comics would end up being one of their weakest films. Unfortunately, *Eternals* just doesn’t quite work. While it mostly stays true to Kirby’s original ideas, a few changes-like making the villains, the Deviants, into generic, motivationless monsters-are really disappointing. The movie has a large cast with some good performances from Kumail Nanjiani and Brian Tyree Henry, but the leads, Gemma Chan and Richard Madden, don’t have much chemistry. Their characters are supposed to be deeply in love after 6,000 years, but they come across as if it’s a terrible first date. The script hints at interesting themes connecting superheroes, mythology, and religion, but keeps cutting away from them for repetitive and uninspired fight scenes. It’s hard to imagine a more dull movie about immortal alien robots trying to save the world.

36. The Incredible Hulk

Honestly, watching this felt like Marvel got completely blindsided by *Iron Man*’s success and just threw this together in a panic. It’s a really disjointed and awkward film. And let me tell you, the biggest villain isn’t the one on screen – it’s the casting of Tim Roth as the Abomination. It’s a truly terrible choice, and the character design… well, let’s just say the final form is less intimidating monster and more… bony, unpleasant surprise. You can read more about why it doesn’t work for me here.

35. Thor: The Dark World

It’s fascinating to think how close we were to a very different *Thor* movie, directed by Patty Jenkins. What we got instead was a disappointing adventure centered around a predictable quest for a magical object, and made worse by a remarkably uninteresting villain. However, there’s a silver lining: this film’s poor performance might have been the push Marvel needed to take the bold, creative risks that ultimately led to the success of *Thor: Ragnarok*. (You can read more about this here.)

34. The Marvels

This isn’t the worst Marvel movie, though it’s better than just three others. It’s definitely the most disorganized and awkwardly paced. The film throws three likable heroes – Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Monica Rambeau – together to fight a Kree villain who’s simply determined to cause trouble. The actors have great chemistry, but the story is short, confusing, and filled with odd decisions that don’t really add up.

33. Captain America: Brave New World

Many recent Marvel movies, including *The Marvels*, have talented actors but weak stories. This is particularly true for *Captain America: Brave New World*, which introduces Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) as the new Captain America, but lets him down with a dull villain and a plot that relies too much on references to *The Incredible Hulk*. Honestly, most viewers weren’t really concerned about what happened to Betty Ross.

32. Doctor Strange

While *Doctor Strange* has impressive visuals, it feels a lot like another *Iron Man* movie, but with magic. The ending, with Dormammu, was a clever highlight, but Strange’s cape felt a bit silly. (You can read a more detailed review here.)

31. Iron Man 2

It’s an improvement over what you might recall, but it’s still flawed. Sam Rockwell’s performance helps distract from the issues, though not completely. If they trimmed about 15 minutes – specifically the parts that feel like setup for other movies – it could be really good. (You can find a more detailed review here.)

30. Ant-Man

While *Ant-Man* isn’t a bad movie, it’s difficult to watch without wishing we’d gotten the larger, original vision Edgar Wright had planned. However, Michael Peña’s character, Luis, might be the most entertaining non-superhero character in the whole Marvel Cinematic Universe. (You can read more about it here.)

29. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

The new movie pits Ant-Man against Kang the Conqueror, and even Kang (played by the intimidating Jonathan Majors) admits Ant-Man is outmatched. This imbalance reflects the film itself: the down-to-earth, character-driven humor of the *Ant-Man* series feels small compared to the large-scale, universe-hopping story Marvel is building in Phase 5. While it works as a standard Marvel action movie, it’s not a particularly strong entry in the *Ant-Man* series. (And fans of Michael Peña’s character, Luis, will be disappointed – he doesn’t appear at all.)

28. Ant-Man and the Wasp

The movie *Ant-Man and the Wasp* is most enjoyable when it focuses on its lighter, more personal moments – like Paul Rudd’s playful banter, Michael Peña’s funny stories, and the emotional journey of a family working through their issues. (You can read more about it here.)

27. Captain Marvel

While Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel is arguably the most powerful hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the movie itself felt a bit emotionally flat. It’s saved by two standout performances: Ben Mendelsohn as the clever Skrull Talos, and Samuel L. Jackson – who looks remarkably young thanks to impressive special effects – as a younger Nick Fury. (You can read more about it here.)

26. Black Widow

Although Scarlett Johansson finally starred in a solo *Black Widow* movie in 2021, the film focused more on her interactions with her quirky team of Russian superheroes – like the boastful Red Guardian (David Harbour) and the standout Yelena (Florence Pugh) – than on a true farewell to the character. While not the perfect ending Black Widow deserved, it’s still a strong Marvel movie with exciting action and a memorable villain, Taskmaster, who copies the fighting styles of anyone he faces.

25. Thor: Love and Thunder

Taika Waititi’s *Love and Thunder* feels similar to his previous *Thor* film, *Ragnarok*. While *Ragnarok* was a delightful surprise, *Love and Thunder* reuses many of the same comedic ideas, making it less impactful. Christian Bale delivers a chilling performance as the villain Gorr, but his serious portrayal clashes with Chris Hemsworth’s consistently humorous take on Thor. The film includes all the elements that made *Ragnarok* work, but they don’t quite come together as smoothly this time.

24. Deadpool & Wolverine

The playful dynamic between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman is a major highlight. The surprise appearances are genuinely shocking. However, the plot is overloaded with explanations and ultimately doesn’t make a lot of sense – it feels like too many tragic backstories are crammed in! If you can switch your brain off and just enjoy the ride, you’ll have a good time. Reynolds and Jackman definitely deliver on the fun of seeing Deadpool and Wolverine reluctantly team up to save the X-Men characters from the Fox universe. It’s just a shame the writing, even with Reynolds contributing, wasn’t quite as strong as it could have been.

23. Captain America: The Winter Soldier

While not as good as you might recall, *Iron Man 2* is still an enjoyable movie. The trailers focused too much on a mystery plot that didn’t quite deliver, but the introduction of Anthony Mackie as the Falcon is a definite highlight, and Chris Evans remains a solid Captain America. However, it’s hard to believe that Nick Fury, supposedly the world’s top spy, was completely unaware of the widespread corruption within SHIELD. He really should have seen that coming. (You can read a more detailed review here.)

22. Avengers: Infinity War

This movie is incredibly grand in scale and has a truly memorable ending, but it doesn’t quite feel complete. If you’re just looking for a fast-paced Marvel action film with witty dialogue, you’ll probably enjoy it. However, if you prefer stories that focus on character development, relationships, and quieter, more emotional moments, this one might not be for you. (You can read a more detailed review here.)

21. Iron Man 3

This movie is solid, but feels a little diminished by being part of the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe. The story focuses on Tony Stark’s attempt to retire as Iron Man, which feels undercut by the fact that he appears in several subsequent films. While Guy Pearce’s villain is underwhelming, Robert Downey Jr. is fantastic in his scenes with the surprisingly mature young actor. (You can read a more detailed review here.)

20. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

The final battle in *Shang-Chi*-filled with dragons and monsters fighting in a murky, gray haze-looks unfortunately rough due to the special effects. However, up until that point, *Shang-Chi* stands out as one of Marvel’s strongest action films, boasting several exciting and well-choreographed fight sequences (the bus fight in San Francisco is a particular highlight!). Simu Liu leads a surprisingly deep cast, with fantastic performances from Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh, while Ben Kingsley and Awkwafina provide consistent comic relief. Kingsley’s character, Trevor Slattery (the former Mandarin), wasn’t initially a fan favorite, but Marvel has cleverly turned him into a delightful supporting character.

19. Thor

The movie *Thor* is a large-scale, universe-spanning story surprisingly set in a tiny New Mexico town. While it has its flaws, *Thor* was the first Marvel film where strong casting and engaging performances really saved the day – a pattern that would become common for Marvel movies later on. (You can read more about it here.)

18. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Ryan Coogler had a huge challenge making *Wakanda Forever*. He needed to create a sequel worthy of the first *Black Panther* while also dealing with the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman, who died before filming could begin. The movie is most powerful when it blends the grief of Coogler and the cast with Wakanda’s mourning for its king. However, the rest of the film feels chaotic, with lots of ideas and characters, and a confusing villain in the form of the underwater king Namor.

17. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)

Marvel’s new Fantastic Four movie, *First Steps*, is a clear upgrade from the previous four attempts made by Roger Corman and 20th Century Fox. Honestly, it had a low bar to clear – those earlier films ranged from just okay to truly bad. *First Steps* benefits from beautiful visuals and a compelling villain, Galactus, a lonely space god with a big appetite. However, the Fantastic Four themselves feel a bit bland and don’t quite come to life.

Is it an enjoyable movie? Yes, but not as much fun as I’d hoped. Director Matt Shakman seemed to have perfect casting choices on paper, but the actors didn’t quite connect with their characters on screen. It’s possible the script didn’t give them enough to work with. It’s a good start, but there’s definitely potential for the franchise to improve.

16. Captain America: Civil War

The plot falls apart with the slightest examination, and the entire movie feels like a setup for the epic airport fight between Iron Man and Captain America. However, that battle sequence is absolutely amazing! (You can find more details here.)

15. Spider-Man: No Way Home

Jon Watts’ third *Spider-Man* movie is similar in quality to Sam Raimi’s third *Spider-Man* film – both are packed with too many villains. However, this new movie really gets what makes Peter Parker so likable: he’s someone who struggles but always keeps trying. It also introduces the multiverse to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a significant and impactful way, making it a key moment in the overall story.

14. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

After a 15-year break, director Sam Raimi returned to Marvel with a fun and chaotic adventure centered on a fight to save the multiverse. Similar to his earlier *Spider-Man* films, Raimi brought his unique style-including quirky humor, scary zombies, and sudden surprises-to the classic Marvel approach. (You can read more about it here.)

13. Thunderbolts (2025)

Many of Marvel’s projects since *Endgame* have felt like they were assembled from leftover ideas. But *Thunderbolts* actually feels like a complete movie, with a strong story and engaging characters. Florence Pugh is particularly good as the new Black Widow, who’s unhappy with her life and doesn’t enjoy her work. She finds a sense of purpose when she joins a group of equally disillusioned mercenaries, including Wyatt Russell’s confident U.S. Agent and Hannah John-Kamen’s mysterious Ghost. With exciting action and a meaningful message about overcoming negativity through teamwork and taking action, *Thunderbolts* shows what Marvel can achieve when it’s at its best.

12. Avengers: Age of Ultron

I’m still not sure why people dislike this movie so much. It’s true that it isn’t as good as the first *Avengers*, and the storyline with Wanda and Pietro is confusing. However, the ending-where the Avengers team up to save everyone in Sokovia-is classic Marvel at its best. (You can read more about it here.)

11. Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2

This movie is a bit long, especially with all the extra scenes after the credits-there are way too many! But it’s impressive how they took the generally lighthearted *Guardians of the Galaxy* and made a sequel with a surprisingly sad ending. It’s the only Marvel film that actually made me cry, and it still manages to be funny-even with jokes about, well, alien anatomy. That combination, for me, makes it a winner. (You can read more about it here.)

10. Thor: Ragnarok

I just really like when Jeff Goldblum plays a space god who DJs his own parties. (Read more here.)

9. Spider-Man: Far From Home

Tom Holland returns as Spider-Man in Marvel’s *Far From Home*, a sequel that’s nearly as good as the first film. It delivers a satisfying mix of romance, action, humor, and emotional moments. While the famous line about responsibility isn’t spoken, the movie explores that theme just as deeply as any other Spider-Man story. Peter Parker finds himself juggling his feelings for MJ (played with witty charm by Zendaya) and a mission from Nick Fury (a comically exasperated Samuel L. Jackson) to defeat a group of elemental villains.

8. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

James Gunn ends his *Guardians of the Galaxy* trilogy on a high note, delivering a classic Marvel experience with thrilling action, imaginative visuals, and characters you truly care about. *Volume 3* especially elevates Rocket Raccoon, transforming him into a surprisingly compelling and heartbreaking hero. After a run of underwhelming Marvel films, Gunn proves he still has what it takes. It’s a shame he’s now moving over to lead DC Studios.

7. Avengers: Endgame

This movie is a significant improvement over *Infinity War* and ranks as the second-best *Avengers* film. It’s packed with massive action sequences, plenty of humor, and likely more hidden details and references than any other movie in the superhero genre. (You can find more details here.)

6. Spider-Man: Homecoming

This is one of the most fun movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with great characters and amazing Spider-Man action. There’s even a funny moment where a street vendor asks Spider-Man to do a flip – and he actually does it! It’s pure entertainment. (You can read more about it here.)

5. Guardians of the Galaxy

Released roughly halfway through the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s run so far, the first *Guardians of the Galaxy* film allowed Marvel to experiment with a lighter tone and demonstrated that audiences would embrace lesser-known characters. Before James Gunn’s film, the Guardians were relatively obscure, but it became a major hit. And, just for the record, Rocket is the best Guardian – that’s simply a fact. (You can read more about it here.)

4. Captain America: The First Avenger

While the plot feels a bit rushed at times, particularly with the war sequence, Chris Evans’ portrayal of Captain America is arguably the most successful character adaptation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film transformed a hero often criticized for being boring or outdated into a compelling, charismatic, and complex man grounded in simple, admirable values. It’s the perfect MCU movie to watch when you need a boost of inspiration. (Read more here.)

3. Black Panther

Many Marvel films try too hard to link everything together, but *Black Panther* proves that focusing on a self-contained story can be more effective. Although Black Panther opening Wakanda to the world feels like a hopeful conclusion, it also suggests future movies might lose focus with numerous cameos and connections to other storylines. (You can find more details here.)

2. The Avengers

Even with the success of *Infinity War*, the first *Avengers* movie still feels remarkably well-made. It expertly balances a huge cast of characters, has a focused story, and features an incredible, large-scale battle in New York that stands out as one of the best action scenes in recent years. (You can find more details here.)

1. Iron Man

It remains unmatched to this day. Looking back, the film benefited from not needing to connect to a larger cinematic universe. The scenes of Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark perfecting and then first flying in his armor perfectly capture the excitement of superpowers – better than any superhero movie ever made, including those from Marvel itself. (Read more here.)

2025-09-23 22:33