By: Lexy Zagal Cervantes and Elena Chezmechyan
Marvel Studios released the new 2026 American superhero film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, sparking reactions throughout Costa Mesa Middle/High School. Students and staff shared their thoughts on the film through a schoolwide poll and in-person interviews, revealing a range of reactions. The poll revealed that 100% of students who participated enjoyed the film, while the average rating given was a 4.6 out of 5 stars.
To gain a staff perspective, we interviewed our middle school journalism teacher, Mrs. Barnett, about her thoughts on the film. When asked about her favorite scene, Barnett chose the moment when MJ discovers Peter’s letter while aboard Frank’s ship, saying, “That’s probably my favorite part.” We also asked Mrs. Barnett who her favorite character was and she responded with, “I really like MJ, just because she’s like a hard working girly…She moved on with her life, which I feel like a lot of people, maybe, don’t really do.”
Mrs. Barnett also discussed Sadie Sink, an American actress known for her role as Max Mayfield in Stranger Things. She felt Sink’s character could’ve been more involved, saying “adding more of her story would’ve been interesting.”
Mrs. Barnett saw the movie on opening night, recalling that the theater was “full” and “super packed.” She said, “Everyone was excited, people had their Spider-Man pajamas, and shirts.”
Overall, Barnett gave Spider-Man: Brand New Day a 5 out of 5, calling it “one of the better movies” she has seen. However, she said she would’ve liked to see “more collaboration with super heroes.”
Adrianna, a member of the school’s security staff, also shared her thoughts on Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Adrianna praised the movie for its action and storyline, saying it was “just so well done” and calling it “a great movie.”
Although the movie was nearly three hours long (approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes), Adrianna said she barely noticed its length. “But it went so fast, because you know, it was just so good,” she said. She also noted that the characters and villains kept her engaged throughout the movie, describing the action as “nonstop.” By the end of the interview, Adrianna said “I actually want to see it again.”
Mr. Nguyen, the middle school STEM and 8th grade science teacher, also shared his thoughts on the film. His favorite scene involved Sadie Sink’s character using her powers, which he believes could set up future events in the franchise. “I think that’s gonna set up a lot in the future,” he said.
Mr. Nguyen gave the film a 4.5 out of 5, praising its cinematography and visual style. He said it “really looked like a real Spider-Man, like almost like a cartoon, but made into a real live action.”
When asked about his favorite character, Mr Nguyen chose Jean Grey, played by Sadie Sink. He said he liked how her character was “setting up the X-Men for the future.” However, if he could change something about the movie, he said he would want to know more about what happens to Hulk.
With opinions ranging from favorite characters and scenes, to thoughts on the movie’s storyline and future, students and staff had plenty to say about Spider-Man: Brand New Day. From students excited about the newest Spider-Man adventure to staff members praising its characters and visuals, the film received a variety of reactions throughout Costa Mesa Middle/High School. While everyone may have had a different opinion, one thing was clear: Spider-Man: Brand New Day gave the school community plenty to talk about.
