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Jay writes...

I would like to ask one simple question. Are the ratings for Spectacular Spiderman doing "Spectacular" enough to have season 3 renewed or at least have hope for it?
Thanks for your time.

Greg responds...

Once again... we have to see what the ratings are for the Second Season before we find out about a possible third.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Bubba writes...

As a hardcore spiderman fan I would like to ask a couple of questions about the show. 1. Do you feel confident that there will be many more seasons to come for "The Spectacular Spiderman" because I think many people believe this to be one of the, if not, greatest adaption of a superhero show? If so, when will you think season 3 will be announced?
2. When is the season 1 boxset of season 1 being released and the price? Also does dvds sale come into play when the programs think about renewing the series for more seasons?

Greg responds...

1. I really am too superstitious to predict. I don't know when (or if) an announcement will come, but I'm pretty sure it won't come until AFTER the second season starts airing on Disney XD in the United States.

2. Sometime this summer. And probably.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

My mistress with a monster is in love.
Near to her close and consecrated bower,
While she was in her dull and sleeping hour,
A crew of patches, rude mechanicals,
That work for bread upon Athenian stalls,
Were met together to rehearse a play,
Intended for great Theseus' nuptial day.
The shallowest thickskin of that barren sort,
Who Pyramus presented in their sport,
Forsook his scene and entered in a brake.
When I did him at this advantage take,
An ass's nole I fixèd on his head.
Anon his Thisby must be answerèd,
And forth my mimic comes. When they him spy,
As wild geese that the creeping fowler eye,
Or russet-pated choughs, many in sort,
Rising and cawing at the gun's report,
Sever themselves and madly sweep the sky;
So at his sight away his fellows fly,
And at our stamp here o'er and o'er one falls;
He murder cries and help from Athens calls.
Their sense thus weak, lost with their fears thus strong,
Made senseless things begin to do them wrong,
For briers and thorns at their apparel snatch:
Some, sleeves -- some, hats; from yielders all things catch.
I led them on in this distracted fear
And left sweet Pyramus translated there,
When in that moment (so it came to pass)
Titania waked, and straightway loved an ass.

"Opening Night"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Okay, two of my great loves have been combined. Spider-Man and William Shakespeare. And, our first episode personally scripted by Greg Weisman since "Intervention" back in the first season. You know it's a Weisman episode because of all the Shakespeare dialogue. You also know it's a Weisman script because of the cast of thousands. ;)

Okay, a new wing has been built at Ryker's Island called the Vault. Considering all the supervillains running around, it would make sense to finally give them their own wing. Not to mention Norman Osborn gets to make a profit off of it. He cranks 'em out and he locks 'em up. The perfect racket.

So, Norman somehow contacts Spider-Man and wants him to break out of the Vault to test security. And then is conveniently called away by Donald Menken... curious.

Meanwhile, at Midtown High, the production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is about to start, and Peter hasn't shown up to watch Liz. More than that, Harry Osborn, who was cast as Puck is missing also. Curious...

So, Norman Osborn and Harry Osborn are both no where to be seen, and the Green Goblin shows up to destroy Spider-Man. And, with an OsCorp Osberry, he manages to take control of security and free all the criminals and supervillains locked up. Bad news, Spidey, very bad news.

While this is happening, Black Cat breaks in to bust out her father, Walter Hardy aka the Cat Burglar. And, as we find out, the murderer of Uncle Ben...

Okay, I may as well discuss this since I know this is going to probably provide a lot of controversy, but, this is very well done. It achieved what "Spider-Man 3" tried to do, and failed miserably at. Either way, Peter still didn't stop him, he looked the other way, and his Uncle Ben paid with his life. This isn't like the movie where the Burglar was not the real killer and the Sandman was. If they had made that Burglar Flint Marko from the get go, I doubt that would have been as controversial.

Sam Raimi, if you're reading, take notes. Watch this show. This is how you do Spidey.

Okay, back to the episode. Among the prisoners are Montana, Ox, Fancy Dan, Rhino, Molten Man, a Mysterio robot, and Silvermane takes charge. Turns out Quentin Beck is still free after all... which was a big surprise.

Speaking of Mysterio, his Homunculi have really grown on me. They amuse me. I particularly enjoyed Jameson shouting out "I love these guys! They should have their own show!" Hmmm... winged creatures having their own show. I believe Weisman would call this an exercise in self indulgence. ;)

By the way, I enjoyed seeing Montana use a lasso. Yeah, it's dated, I don't want to see him use one again. But as a brief nod to the source material, it was fun.

And only Rhino could call Ox "pip squeak."

Did the Goblin ever bother to deactivate Mark's "curse?"

Well, Walter Hardy turns out to be a semi-decent man, as he wants to pay for his crime, stops the criminals from escaping, and remains behind as a prisoner. Black Cat is not happy about this. Period. Sorry, Cat/Spidey 'shippers. I think the ship has sailed for that now.

Although, on that note, it shouldn't be too hard for Felicia to figure out Spidey's identity now, considering how personally he took Ben Parker's murder. Assuming it even registered for her.

This episode was just beautiful. The action. The drama. The Shakespeare? Oh god, the Shakespeare. We need more of it in animation. You can never have too much Shakespeare.

My favorite moment is hard to pick, but... I loved the Green Goblin reciting Puck's monologue. Hey, the Green Goblin is a trickster, and Puck is the original. Gotta love it. That was a geekgasm.

"Up and down, up and down,
I will lead them up and down:
I am fear'd in field and town:
Goblin, lead them up and down."

Speaking of Puck, Hobie Brown finally speaks. About damn time, too. I loved his Puck costume and Glory's Cobweb costume.

Flash is still not a very good actor. Not a knock at Joshua LeBar, he is fantastic. I really think Flash has grown more this year than anyone else in the cast. Kudos for that.

So, the Goblin loses his temper and attempts to kill Spidey, but is driven off my both him and the Black Cat. Somehow, I don't see Cat doing him any more favors.

I guess we'll see soon if the Goblin messed up by revealing his return too soon. Yes, he nearly nailed Spidey, but he obviously went into that confrontation half-cocked. But, I am sure that next episode the gloves will be off. No matter who is under the mask, his (or her, it could be Emily) last name is Osborn. Spidey knows about that connection and will have to be eliminated.

One more episode to go. Spider-Man versus Green Goblin. I both eagerly anticipate it, and at the same time, I dread it. The show still hasn't been picked up for season three, and I don't want "Final Curtain" to be, well, the final curtain.

So, where was Harry? Who is the Green Goblin? What will happen to Peter and Gwen? If this is indeed the final curtain, then I am sure it will be a very memorable one.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Actually, Jonah's line wasn't a Gargoyles reference. I really would like to do an "HOMUNCULI" spin-off series. Three little robot monsters on the loose in the world. I think it would be great fun.

(You heard it here first.)

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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anonymous writes...

**spoilers for season two for "The Spectacular Spider-Man"**

Hello.

Loved what you've done with Sandman on this show's first two seasons. I hope you have more plans for him if there's a season three.

As for Sandman's old partner Rhino, will we see another solo Rhino story on your show someday? We saw one for Sandman in season two, so why not one for Rhino too?

Finally, do you think Robert Englund could come back as the voice of Vulture next season if you decide to use him? Englund has done an excellent job on this show.

**end of season two spoilers**

Greg responds...

1. We'll just have to see.

2. I see no reason why Robert wouldn't come back. Do you know something I don't?

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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kyle Tonarella writes...

Hey Greg I have a question conserning black cat on spectacular spider-man. At the end of the episode Opening Night which was a awsome episode written by you Greg. Anyway at the end black cat said that she'll never forgive Spider-man for letting her father stay in prison is there any chance in a possible season 3 we'll see diffrent dynamic next time spidey and black cat face each other ?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

That's where we left off. That's where we'll pick up again -- if we pick up again.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Jason R. Carter writes...

OK, some SS-M questions:

1. Exactly, what *does* Rand see in Sally, anyway? Multitudes of fans are dying to know.

2. You said in an interview (can't remember quite where I read it) that it was Sean Galloway's design for JJJ that cinched the deal for him. What was it about that particular design that convinced you?

Greg responds...

1. Dude.

2. I wouldn't say it was his Jonah that clinched the DEAL for HIM. It was his Jonah that clinched SEAN for ME. It's hard to answer your question articulately, but basically it just felt SO Jonah, and yet contemporary. He just seemed to capture the essence of the character.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

Well, what can I say about this one? Heeee's baaaack... with a vengeance.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

"Subtext"

There's a new Big Man in New York City. His name? The Green Goblin. With Tombstone now under surveillance and cut off from his empire, and Silvermane and Doc Ock in prison... all thanks to his machinations, the Green Goblin is stepping up to the plate and painting the town green.

In the comics, the Green Goblin was this character who always, in spite of his bizarre costume, would have me on edge whenever he showed up. You never knew what he was going to do next, except you know it would be evil and painful. Well, considering how this episode is I am going to be on the edge of my seat throughout the next two.

Liz's brother, Mark Allan, is in trouble. Big trouble. I've often said that one of the worst things you can be is a gambler. It's maybe only slightly better than being a drug addict. It's stupid and the consequences are dire. The only sure thing about gambling is the price is not worth the risk... and not worth the minute victory.

I gambled only once in my life, at the 2005 Gathering of the Gargoyles in Las Vegas. I spent, maybe an hour playing Black Jack, and when I was up $100, I stopped. I never went back. Yes, I won. But I felt it. I felt how easy it was to sink into it, and walked away.

Mark, well... he ended up owing money to a bookie and hood named Blackie Gaxton, who as we saw in the last episode worked for Tombstone. And now, he's working for the Green Goblin. And what does Gobby want? A guinea pig for a new supervillain. You all know where this is going...

Mark gets his powers, courtesy of Norman Osborn's new scientist, Miles Warren (whom I expected). The poor boy thinks he's done, is even given $100 and sent on his way. Well, here comes the tragedy. He can't control his new powers at all. The Green Goblin is in control of him. And now, he's become the Molten Man, and he's at the Goblin's beck and call.

The Goblin has one simple demand, kill Spider-Man. Not distract him, like Tombstone was attempting to do. Kill him. As we can see, the Goblin is looking to be a more dangerous Big Man than his predecessor. Helps when you're psychotic.

Oh, and I don't think you need to be a genius to figure the Goblin had no intention of letting Mark out of his clutches even after he killed Spider-Man.

Meanwhile, Mary Jane and Liz are concerned, and like Spidey, track Mark down. Poor Mary Jane, she got more attached to Mark than she expected. Things do not end well.

So, Molten Man is defeated, and taken away. Mary Jane and Liz have been emotionally wrecked, and the Goblin is just cackling his green head off and plotting his next move.

Peter tried to salvage his relationship with Liz, but, the writing is on the wall... there's not much there to salvage. But, watching this, I can't help but wish them luck.

Gwen Stacy has kept her new look, and damn she looks fine (but, I do miss the glasses). Harry is a lucky guy... um... too bad the writing on the wall here spells doomed as well.

Of course, I would fail at life if I didn't bother mentioning Miles Warren here. Even with my knowledge of the character in the comics, it's still shocking to see this jackal slowly getting worse and worse before our eyes. When we first met him, he seemed, well, normal. Next episode he is profiting off of Kraven, and carrying guns on school property. Then, he seized administrative control of the lab from the Connors, but he was right, security under them has been lacking. But here... supervillain in the making. This jackal is probably the most vile character in the series.

As for the story. Greg Weisman combined the characters of Mark Raxton (he was Liz's step-brother in the comics) and Bennett Brant (Betty Brant's brother) into one. Bennett was a gambler who fell into debt with Blackie Gaxton and was killed over it. In a way, I think this is more tragic and I cannot help but be reminded of the "Gargoyles" episodes, "Metamorphosis" where Elisa Maza's brother, Derek is transformed by David Xanatos into a bat-winged, feline mutate named Talon.

Two episodes left to go, and, honestly, and this is saying how well done this show is, but... I'm actually scared for the cast. It just feels like nobody is safe. usually on TV, especially in cartoons, the cast is safe. You don't have that feeling of dread because tragedies are usually not allowed to befall them. But, here? We're approaching the season finale, and that usually means a shake-up is coming, and here I think it will be a tragic one.

The Green Goblin is back... and I have no idea what he's going to do next. God help them.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Hey, if we can keep you uneasy, then I think we've succeeded.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Jesse B. writes...

Hello again, Greg!

I apologize if my last comment about Robbie, Jean, and Stan in Spectacular came off as overly critical. That was absolutely NOT my intention! "Silly" was definitely the wrong word to use in regards to the use of Jean and Stan in the series. I really am looking forward to further development with those two, and I especially love the occasional dark asides we get from Stan.

In regards to the Master Planner arc: definitely a stellar job overall, especially "Shear Strength" which instantly became my favourite episode in the series. Jen and the staff definitely get major props for putting so much intensity and passion into that episode.

There was one thing I was a little unclear on throughout the first arc of season 2:

- Was Tinkerer the one who constructed those androids that Mysterio used, or was it Beck? Or were they provided by someone else?

One other thing: I just love the way that you-know-who uses "Master Planner" as his crime lord name. I hope that continues into the future!

Greg responds...

Mostly Tinkerer.

Response recorded on May 05, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"Gangland"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

It's Valentine's Day, and, well... to everyone like me who hates Valentine's Day, this episode is a treat.

We've got a trio of villains this time. Tombstone, Dr. Octopus and Silvermane call a summit at the opera at, what looks like, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Ock, Silvermane, and the Tombster all decked in fancy tuxedos. Silvermane nearly toasting to a Valentine's Day Massacre made me choke... awesome Al Capone reference there. This was fun to watch. Tombstone, Silvermane and the good doctor all think they're in control, but not at all realizing they're being played.

After Norman Osborn's little speech in the previous episode, Hammerhead has gotten very ambitious, and has trapped these three right where he wants them. Playing them all... but, who is actually playing who? Hammerhead is receiving notes from someone else. Now, who'd want these gangsters and supervillains to destroy each other? I have to say, I loved seeing Tombstone flustered.

Meanwhile, across town, Peter, Liz, Gwen, Harry, Mary Jane, and Mark are dating as a group over at a hotel Liz owns, so, free food... very sweet deal. But, as usual, Peter and Gwen would obviously rather be with each other, which Liz notices, as does Mark. They are joined by Flash, Sha Shan, Rand, and Sally... and hilarity ensues. Gotta love Flash demanding that Peter prevent him from saying something stupid.

I have to say, I loved Mark and MJ's statements on just what a sham Valentine's Day actually is. Sums up how I've always felt about it.

I loved the battle scenes in this episode, with an opera soundtrack in the background. Tuxedos and opera... and carnage. Classy. Very classy. Of course, Peter is forced to take off so Spidey can arrive, and, at long last, take these three down. He takes down Silvermane, then Doc Ock, and finally, the re-match we've been waiting for... Spider-Man versus Tombstone.

Throughout the battle, Tombstone calls Blackie Gaxton for help... there is interference. Octopus calls Kraven... again, interference. At this point, it's become clear, this is bigger than a stooge like Hammerhead. Another hand is at work here.

Can I say again how much I love the opera soundtrack? Opera. Gangsters. Supervillains. It's "The Godfather" in spandex.

Tombstone is taken down, and L. Thompson Lincoln is exposed as the Big Man of Crime, and hauled off in handcuffs. Of course he fires Hammerhead, and tells him to "expect his severance package soon." Nice!

While I know some people are complaining about it, what I like about this show is the shifting status quo. Tombstone doesn't remain the unknown crime lord. It avoids the problems of the 1990's Kingpin in that particular cartoon... nothing ever changed there, same old same old, and every villain worked for him. Here, on the other hand, Tombstone's situation is allowed to change. And that's one of the reasons why this show is so rich.

Of course, Tombstone makes bail. Nothing to convict him on, but that doesn't mean his life isn't about to get a whole lot more difficult...

... Especially at the end, where we learn who the true mastermind behind all this was. With Tombstone knocked out, there is a power vacuum in the criminal underworld. And, being no slouch, Tombstone figured it out. In the words of Michael Corleone, "our true enemy has yet to reveal himself," well, he finally does

"Guilty, guilty and oh so very guilty of being the new Big Man of Crime?" And with a maniacal laugh worthy of so many others, the Green Goblin ushers in his new dark reign which looks to close out this season.

This episode was just brilliant, and I think may be my favorite of the series run so far. But, we've got three more to go.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Ah, the benefits of opera...

Response recorded on May 05, 2009

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Stuart Green writes...

Hello again, Mr. Weisman. I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to ask two quick questions, if I may:

1.) There is something I've wanted to know for a long time and I kept forgetting to ask you. In the trailer for season one of "The Spectacular Spider-Man" and in the series' opening credits, Spider-Man had a blurry red-and-blue spider-sense look. On the show, though, the spider-sense look features the same wavy lines around Spidey's head like in the comic books. Why did the look of spider-sense change? Do you know?

2.) What are your feelings on the currently-retconned marriage of Spider-Man and Mary Jane? I am one of the Spidey comic fans who has quit reading the book due to "One More Day"/"Brand New Day", but how do you feel about the Spider-Marriage? Do you like it? Do you miss it?

On the subject, in case anyone is interested, I started an online petition last year to restore Spider-Man's marriage to Mary Jane back into continuity in "The Amazing Spider-Man" comic books. To read and/or sign it, go here:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/spideyandmj/index.html

Thanks for your time, Mr. Weisman, and I hope you have a good day.

Greg responds...

1. You know, I don't have what you're describing in front of me, but I don't think we were inconsistent.

2. No comment.

Response recorded on May 04, 2009

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anonymous writes...

**spoilers**

Hi.

1 - Any Man-Wolf plans in mind for season three or another season? Think Frank Welker could do the voice for Man-Wolf?

2 - Hope to see more Doc Ock. Wish he'd interacted with Mysterio and more with Kraven in season two, but I know you can only do so much every season. Maybe next season we can see them together on-screen?

3- Now that Hobie Brown finally spoke on your show, think the voice actor for Hobie will return for more episodes next season even if he doesn't become Prowler?

4 - Hope we see more of Mysterio in season three. And the REAL Mysterio, not a robot of him. I also love his gargoyle robots. They were a hoot in "Opening Night". (My favorite gargoyle line: "Pistachio!")

**end o spoilers**

Greg responds...

1. No comment on my plans, but as much as I love Frank, I'm not sure why I'd recast the part, when Daran Norris is so great.

2. No comment.

3. Yes.

4. Those weren't gargoyles; they were homunculi.

Response recorded on May 01, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"Probable Cause"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

We open in a warehouse in, I think, New Jersey, where the Shocker, along with two other characters in enhanced suits are testing their powers. These are the New Enforcers. Fancy Dan now calls himself Ricochet, and can match Spidey in speed and agility. Ox calls himself... Ox... which Tinkerer (who created their new suits) rolls his eyes at. These new Enforcers meet the approval of their boss, Tombstone.

Speaking of Tombstone, Hammerhead is pissed that Tombstone went to the Enforcers directly. Hammerhead is his middle man, after all. It's his job to protect Tombstone from incriminating himself. I just want to say here that I've missed the Tombster and it's great to have him back. The guy knows their is a gang war on the horizon, and he is going to make sure he remains the Big Man.

Hammerhead then goes to Norman Osborn to commission another supervillain. Norman Osborn only seems to happy to oblige, even mentioning he has a new scientist for the procedure... I'm assuming it's Miles Warren. I must also mention that I love Norman Osborn here playing the role of Iago, sowing the seeds of discontent into Hammerhead. And, honestly, a smart devil like Norman, there is no way he's not doing this on purpose. He wants to destroy the Big Man. And, as we saw in the last episode, he's using this gang war to his advantage.

On the other side of things, we have Peter in a police car ride along with Sally Avril... talk about a fate worse than Venom. Sally is, as usual, a grade A bitch. But, the very end of the episode was a nice shocker (pun not intended)... despite being a grade A bitch, she's actually got a human side. So much for my theory that she's secretly the Green Goblin. ;)

George Stacy... when is he going to come out and tell Peter that he knows? The hints are getting very heavy handed. This is my only criticism of the episode. We get it, he knows. Time to do something with it.

Jean DeWolffe and Stan Carter get a little development also. Jean talking about how Spidey is a vigilante and should be brought in, and Stan showing a bit of his dark side by saying Spidey hasn't gone far enough... damn, I hope we get season three. I want these characters to go in the direction we know they're destined to.

And kudos to Flash Thompson for displaying integrity. Sucks for Harry, but Flash did the right thing there. Reporting him, even if it cost the Mustangs the championship. Flash may be many things, but he is an ethical person when you get down to it. He wouldn't use performance enhancers and believes in fair play. Great character development. And, you know, I don't think he did this just to impress Sha Shan.

And, as for Harry, looks like he's about to juice up again. Sigh... drug addiction... terrible thing. And I applaud this show for having the balls to tackle the subject. People relapse, and it looks like Harry is about to.

One more episode in this arc, and we're getting some nice set up for the return of the Green Goblin.

I have to say, I like Hammerhead's chauffeur a lot. It takes a lot of brass to help Hamster betray the Big Man. Smart, ruthless, loyal... and unlike yours truly, she is the best chauffeur ever. ;)

Finally... Ox singing the theme song in the elevator. .... that was a delayed laugh. But a good one.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Glad you liked it.

Response recorded on April 30, 2009

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Spider-man 2099 writes...

If the series have a season 3 theres any chance to see previous spider-man actors like christopher daniel barnes, rino romano or even tobey mcguire.

Greg responds...

I'm not opposed to the notion. In particular, I've worked MANY times with Rino and love the guy.

Response recorded on April 29, 2009

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toxinfan writes...

Hi, any chance of seeing the villain Toxin in the Spectacular Spider-Man show? He hasn't appeared in any animated series yet.

Greg responds...

Still waiting for a pick-up...

Response recorded on April 29, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"Accomplices"
No, I still haven't seen "Watchmen". (Edit, I have seen "Watchmen" and it was good) Gotta wait a little bit before I get the opportunity. So, you'll have to put up with another review of "The Spectacular Spider-Man".

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

"Accomplices" brings back the organized crime element of the series in a major way. Hammerhead representing the Big Man. Sable Manfredi representing her father, Silvio "Silvermane" Manfredi. Dr. Octopus obviously leading the supervillains as the Master Planner. And, Roderick Kingsley.

We open up with Black Cat breaking into OsCorp to steal a data chip, before being chased out by the entire New York underworld. I'll admit, I was hoping for more Black Cat, but plenty of time for her later.

This episode was a fun one. Everyone beats up everyone. Lots of power games and struggles. We also got to know Foswell a little better, and I figured that Patch was Foswell going undercover to get scoops on the underworld.

That being said, last season, Foswell dismissed the idea that L. Thompson Lincoln was the Big Man. I kind of find that a little difficult to believe since that seems to be the worst kept secret in the underworld. Marco and O'Hirn knew he was the Big Man. Those three goons who Goblin outfitted with pumpkin masks knew he was the Big Man. Black Cat referred to the Big Man as Tombstone. Norman Osborn knew he was the Big Man. Harry (if he was the Goblin) knows. How could Foswell, who is undercover as Patch not know?

I still don't think Foswell is the Big Man on this show, and believe me, I am more than cool with that, I love Tombstone in the role. But, the more I think about it, the more I think something must be going on there. Foswell might me on the Big Man's payroll or something. Or not.

I did enjoy finally meeting Roderick Kingsley... who kind of reminds me of Michael Clark Duncan's Kingpin, but with white hair. A lot of money, but he doesn't seem to be the power player the others seem to be. I mean, as Pete said, he owns a perfume company, why is he involved? If he wants to be a real player in the underworld... he's going to need something a little extra. And now, my not so inner comic book nerd who knows where this is likely to lead is shutting up now. ;)

I just want to say that I don't think the Kingsley that cowered before Silver Sable was Roderick. I think that was his twin brother, Daniel, covering for Roddy like in the comics.

Silver Sable was great. I'm sure some people will be annoyed that she was changed into Silvermane's daughter, but I'm not. Actually, it fits in nicely with the whole 'silver' theme that's going there. It just feels a lot more organic and natural. She kicked ass, took names, and, let's face it, Spidey needs more female villains.

I agree with Spidey. Sable and Hammerhead used to date? Ew. I actually said ew a few seconds before Spidey did.

And there's Rhino. I liked him here. He doesn't want any competition. And I loved his brief team-up with Spidey.

Doc Ock mostly seemed to sit this one out. Obviously, he doesn't care if the data gets destroyed or not, he created the process of transforming O'Hirn into the Rhino in the first place. What's to stop him from doing it again? Was also cool to see Vulture still hanging out with him. Oh, and Ock, you devil you. Two dates? He's always been such a player in the comics. Whether it's Stunner, Lady Octopus, or Aunt May... chicks love the good doctor. It's the tentacles.

And Norman Osborn came out the victor here. Gets to keep his tech and do whatever he wants with it, and millions and millions of dollars in a secret account for him. Gee... I wonder what he's going to do here.

Well, looks the groundwork is being laid for an excellent gang war story arc. Harry is jealous that Pete is getting a lot of attention from his dad. Pete still digs Gwen more than Liz. And George is getting really blatant about his knowledge of Spidey's identity.

But, perhaps the biggest mystery of them all? When will Hobie Brown speak???

Tune in next week, same spider time. Same spider channel.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

Thanks for the kind words.

Response recorded on April 28, 2009

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anonymous writes...

**SEASON TWO "SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN" SPOILERS*

Do you think it's likely we can see a Mysterio story from the comic books on your show in the future? Like "Spider-Man Goes Mad!" where Mysterio is Dr. Reinhart, or the story where he makes Spider-Man think he's only six inches tall?

I really love what you've done with Electro. Kind of surprised that it seems he now likes being Electro in season two, though, since he just wanted to be cured in season one. Seems he's literally gone mad with power now. Will Electro ever look human again but keep his powers, or is his "electric being" look permanent for your show? Regardless, hope Electro returns for season three.

Hope that Captain Stacy returns, too. But I don't want him killed off the show just yet. I've read on the internet that a lot of people want to see the "Death of George Stacy" story done on the show, but can you wait bit till you tell that story? I thought Captian Stacy dies when Peter is in college and not in high school, so it's a bit early for that story. Besides, I'm loving what has been done with the character so far.

I also hope Blackie Gaxton and Sha Shan come back for season three. I love how Gaxton's been seen a few times on your show, since he only appeared once in the comics with Doc Ock. Nice to see you've done more with these characters than the comic books ever did.

Thank you.

**END OF SEASON 2 SPOILERS**

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!!

Thanks. I'm sure every character you mentioned will return if we get a third season.

Response recorded on April 24, 2009

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Martin writes...

Why so many people dont like Carnage? He's cool, stronger than Spidey and Venom, he got better design, he's a psycho killer. I really dont get it. Anyway, question. Some sites have pointed that Chameleon's real name is Dmitri Kravinoff. Is this true?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!

No comment.

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Chryse writes...

Hey Greg!

Watched "Gargoyles" as a kid and loved it (it was a lot darker than most cartoons at the time...which I thought was excellent), and have been an avid follower of "The Spectacular Spider-Man" (you really outdid yourself there, gotta say). I'm from Canada, so I've seen the second season already and, as such, have a brief query regarding the look of Gwen Stacy...

In one of the later episodes M.J. gives Gwen a make-over that sticks around (albeit with some alterations) for the remaining episodes. With that in mind, I was wondering if you plan on retaining this design for the proposed third season? I thought the change was excellent, and gave her character a lovely "girl-next-door" look that's very much in line with Romita's work on the series.

P.S.

Can't wait to see more of your work in the future -- whether it's Gargoyles, Spidey or something entirely new!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!!!

Our plan is for Gwen to keep the long hair and the headband (which will generally, but not always, be black). She'll wear glasses sometimes, contacts other times. Her clothes will obviously depend on the occasion and the weather. But her base model won't change in a proposed Season Three (since all three seasons take place within a span of months.

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Anonymous writes...

Dear Greg,

First, i just wanted to say Thank You to your team for making imo the best Spider-man show ever created by far! The animation and fight scenes are amazing, and the storytelling is very well-done. I've already seen season 1 and 2, and now my only challenge is waiting for a season 3 to (hopefully) surface! And also, i'm glad that i hear you do not care much for Carnage. He is a one-dimensional character and imo not deserving of yall's storytelling abilities.
One question. Do you think yall are seriously looking into doing the Clone Saga with miles warren in a season arc? It was a great storyline back in the day, and when they brought it back in the last decade or so in the comics, i thought it just kinda tarnished the memory of old with all the confusing new revelations. I would love to see your group do it right! Do you yourself like the old storyline (i think it ran from Amazing spiderman 129-149)? thanks for your time!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

You seem to LOVE to spread the Carnage rumor. What's your source for this? Seriously, are you making this up?

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Anonymous writes...

Hi Greg,
I want to ask some questions about The Spectacular Spider-Man
1)I saw episode First Steps.I don't get why Sandman is working for Hammerhead,i thought that he was working for Master Planner?I know Hammerhead mention about Sandman's Super-Villain Services,but i still don't get it.
2)Do you have any future plans for Dock Ock,Venom,Green Goblin or Tombstone?
3)Will Doc Connors become Lizard again?And will Milles Warren will become Jackal?
4)Do you have intentions to do Clone Saga In Spectacular Spider-Man Season 3 Or Season 4 and do you have ideas who would be Clone Saga Mastermind?
5)I heard you don't like Carnage.Does that mean that we won't see him in Spectacular Spider-Man?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!!

1. Sandman's chasing his big score. Master Planner loaned him out to Hammerhead.

2. Isn't that kind of a silly question?

3. No comment.

4. No comment.

5. I have NEVER said I don't like Carnage. Where do these rumors start?

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Durkinator writes...

Hey Greg -

I'm not sure if this counts as a spoiler per se, but it does have to do with a running gag that I THINK has only been in season 2 so far.

Basically, I LOVE the little gag with Hobie Brown always getting cut off when he speaks. I don't know what it is about it, it's just so random and so hilarious. I'm watching "Opening Night" as I'm writing this, and I love the scene where he gets the part of Puck.

So my question is--where did that come from? I don't know all that much about Hobie in the comics, other than that he becomes the Prowler, but I'm pretty sure there was never any jokes about his speech. Who came up with that?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

I guess I did. It kind of evolved. We introduced Hobie in a non-speaking part in Season One. (Keep in mind that we don't have an unlimited voice talent budget, so we can't give lines just to give 'em.) I knew I wanted/needed him to play Puck (as Harry's understudy) near the end of Season Two, and I knew I wanted to set him up a bit before that. Introduce his girlfriend Mindy, etc. But do it all economically, both from a money standpoint and a screentime standpoint. This seemed like a fun way to do it. That the first time you ever actually hear him speak, he's speaking Shakespeare. More is in store for Hobie and actor Charles Duckworth (love that name!) if we get a third season.

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Aya writes...

Who is your favorite character on The Spectacular Spider-Man?

Greg responds...

Don't have just one favorite.

Response recorded on April 22, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

Ugh... sorry to post two in a row, really sorry. But I posted my review of "Identity Crisis" before "Growing Pains" by accident.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

"Growing Pains"
Another Sunday, another episode of "The Spectacular Spider-Man" come and gone. And, as far as episodes go, I almost wish there was a bad one so I could stop heaping praise on this show, it gets a tad predictable. But, a great show is a great show, and I'm glad we have one. Good stuff

Oh what a tangled web we weave
When first we practice to deceive.

Okay, the quote may not be Shakespeare as all the auditions were, but I think that sums up this episode quite well. Our tangled web is being weaved by Venom. He is deceiving the city into believing Spider-Man has become a criminal.

I've spoken my thoughts and opinions on Venom in previous reviews, but I have to say that I like this Venom. I like this Venom a lot, and I hate that I do. But, really, this is what he should be. He is the evil Spider-Man. None of this misunderstood, lethal protector of the innocent garbage. This Venom is completely obsessed with Peter Parker and doesn't care who he hurts to get to him. Which is really what he was in his first two appearances, before Marvel decided they had a cash cow and turned him into something else entirely.

Now, the main plot of this issue is loosely based on Amazing Spider-Man #42 where John Jameson was infected by alien spores and gained power, and at his father, J. Jonah Jameson's insistence, he attempted to hunt down Spider-Man. That very same issue also marked Peter Parker meeting Mary Jane Watson for the first time, complete with the popular phrase "Face it tiger, you just hit the jackpot." But, obviously we already did that in the first season.

I enjoyed the treatment of John Jameson here. I think a lot of people thought the creators of this show would jump right into Man-Wolf with him, but nope, they chose to adapt a fun, if somewhat forgotten story from Lee's run. But, considering how this episode ends, with John at Ravencroft lusting for more power, I can foresee a Man-Wolf down the road.

This episode also marked J. Jonah Jameson's return this season. Yes, we got a brief glimpse of him in "Destructive Testing" but it was a brief glimpse and with no lines. Here, well, Darran Norris is still in top form. I love his take on this character, and I just love how Jameson is written. What I enjoy the most about this Jameson is how his hatred of Spider-Man has slowly built up. First, Spidey was just some mook in a costume who sold papers. Second, Spidey participated in trashing the offices of the Daily Bugle... okay, that was Rhino's fault, but still. Then Spidey, without meaning to, upstaged John Jameson's heroic landing of a doomed space shuttle. Now... as far as Jameson is concerned, Spidey is responsible for John being a mental case. Well played, Weisman.

The whole cast auditioning for St. John Devereaux's play was enough to tickle the Shakespeare geek in me. And looking at the cast list at the end, the play is "A Midsummer Night's Dream". Let's see who I can make out... some of the name's are obscured by Devereaux's arm.

Puck..... Harry Osborn
Titania.. Sha Shan Nguyen
Oberon... Kenny Kong
Cobweb... Glory Grant
Hermia... Mary (I assume Jane Watson).
and all the way at the bottom... O'Reilly (I assume Seymore) and below him... Greg Weisman. LOL, I love these little Easter Eggs.

The ending of the episode, well, I love a good cliffhanger, and you can't get a bigger one than Venom bursting into the offices of the Daily Bugle and announcing that Peter Parker is Spider-Man. What, I have to wait a week? Aw well.

Another spectacular one.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

For the record, it wasn't my idea to put my name on the cast list. (Though, of course, I approved it.)

Response recorded on April 21, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"Identity Crisis"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Last week on "The Spectacular Spider-Man". The nefarious Venom revealed Spidey's secret identity to J. Jonah Jameson... CLIFFHANGER! How will Spidey get out of this one?

Will Jameson not believe a big, drooling monster?

Will Spider-Man sell his future marriage to Mary Jane and unborn child to Mephisto after Aunt May gets shot by the Big Man's operatives?

Let's find out...

Again, I have to ask... why didn't Venom ever try this in the comic books? Yes, yes, I know, he wanted to have Spidey all to himself, but that explanation never flew for me. It works for the Green Goblin, because Norman enjoyed the game more than anything. There is a reason he revealed his own identity to Peter Parker after he unmasked Spider-Man. In Norman Osborn's sick mind, it was all a twisted game, and Peter was probably the only real honest relationship he had with another human being (scary as that sounds). But Eddie Brock always blamed Spider-Man for destroying his life, and wanted to return the favor, and yet... he never even came close to pulling the trigger.

And that's why I like this Venom. I like this Venom a lot. He knows Spider-Man's secret identity, and he exploits it. And he almost did it. He almost pulled it off. That trick with the gene cleanser was good. Reveal Spidey's identity, take away his powers, and leave him at the mercy of the entire world. I'm sure the Big Man would have had Aunt May shot within the hour. Not to mention Doc Ock, Vulture, Rhino and Kraven are still at large.

But more than Venom, I think Flash Thompson really shines in this episode. He saved Peter's ass. Twice. He really is Spidey's biggest fan, and I think the ending proved that fact is not sad.

I did like all the reactions to Ned Lee's interview. Norman Osborn said "No" (Alan Rachins gets hauled in for a one syllable word), but I am not entirely convinced he meant it. The Connors just laughed, but gave it serious thought. None of Peter's classmates believe it... although I suspect Mary Jane knows. Gwen laughed (then almost kissed him... curses). I don't think Jameson believed it, but he'd be a fool not to follow up on it. I don't think Ned Lee believed it either, but he was doing his job like a good reporter. But, if George Stacy doesn't know, then I am brain dead.

Aunt May's reaction had me in stitches.

Good to see the gene cleanser come back. And out of Venom's gut mouth also... I love that thing.

"Brock's lost it, Venom is like, twice his size!"

Eddie begging Peter to help him get the symbiote back at the end is just... sick.

I assume Brock is on his way to Ravencroft. Roommates with Electro, John Jameson, and Cletus Kassady (God, I hope that doesn't go where I fear it will).

Miles Warren is officially the slimiest character in the series. I would not be surprised if he was planning to oust the Connors as soon as he got the job. I hope we eventually see that jackal get what's coming to him.

And finally Flash Thompson as Bottom... the role he was born for. He was just the last one to find out. I did like the cartoonish ass head.

Good episode... once again, the team knocks it out of the park.

*** END SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Thanks. We try.

Response recorded on April 21, 2009

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Dmitri writes...

I was just wondering...I have a very general question. How is it you or any of us know how well a cartoon does. I mean, is there a website that shows a show's ratings? I was interested in knowing how spectacular Spiderman, or any show for that matter, is doing in popularity and there seems to be little out there when I search. Great work on spectacular spiderman by the way. Best cartoon ever.

Greg responds...

I learn about the ratings from my bosses. I would think they're published SOMEWHERE, but I couldn't tell you where.

Response recorded on April 21, 2009


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