‘Madame Web’ Review: Dakota Johnson Can’t Save This Spidey Spinoff

In the latest addition to the Spider-Man saga, "Madame Web," starring Dakota Johnson, attempts to weave a new thread into the expansive Marvel universe. Despite Johnson's captivating performance as the clairvoyant Cassandra Webb, the film struggles to rise above its lackluster narrative and predictable plot points. "Madame Web" introduces audiences to a somewhat lesser-known character from the Spider-Man comics, blending supernatural foresight with a modern twist, yet fails to leave a lasting impression or achieve the so-called memorably terrible status that can sometimes make a movie a cult classic.

Dakota Johnson, portraying Cassie Webb, brings an authenticity and relatable charm to the role, distinguishing her character with a blend of mystique and down-to-earth realism rarely seen in superhero movies. Despite being surrounded by clichéd dialogues and uninspiring action sequences, Johnson manages to shine, bringing a sense of serenity and detachment from the chaos that envelops the storyline.

The film's narrative takes us through Cassie's journey from her early days as a New York paramedic to the awakening of her powers, set against the backdrop of 2003 New York and a mysterious preamble in the Peruvian Amazon. The movie attempts to explore the complexities of her character, including a tragic backstory that Johnson skillfully humanizes amidst the film's overall lack of coherence.

Directed by S.J. Clarkson, known for her work on the Netflix series "Jessica Jones," "Madame Web" aims to offer a fresh perspective on the superhero genre, focusing on a character who navigates her extraordinary abilities while grappling with personal loss and existential dilemmas. One of the film's more engaging scenes unfolds at a baby shower, subtly intertwining Cassandra Webb's fate with key figures from the Spider-Man lore, showcasing the potential for deeper narrative exploration.

Despite its promising moments, "Madame Web" falls short of revitalizing the Spider-Man franchise with its new spinoff. Dakota Johnson's performance stands out as a beacon of potential in an otherwise mundane addition to the superhero genre. For fans of the Spider-Man universe and those interested in the evolution of female superheroes in film, "Madame Web" offers a glimpse into what could have been, had the film fully embraced the depth and complexity of its central character.