The Webhead has finally swung back into theaters, and this time he's bigger and better than before. I saw what was possibly the most anticipated movie of the year this past week, and it was well worth the wait. The primary cast return, along with director Sam Raimi.

Ten years ago, I never would have thought that a director best know for the horror/comedy trilogy Evil Dead would be a top Hollywood power, directing what is becoming one of the best franchises in history. But here he is, the style, wit, and look of his early works is intact, but now it is combined with a much higher budget and A list talent.

As I slumped down into my seat and waited patiently, yet anxiously, for the screen to flicker to life, I wondered if all the positive reviews could possibly be true. I let my faith in Raimi assure me that it would be good. The trailers finished and the opening credits started to roll, I knew the reviews were true. The credits had paintings by Alex Ross throughout, capturing many of the best moments of the first film. This fact let me believe that they would not forget what has passed, and that the threads from the first would be followed up on here.

The characters all grow and breathe with more life here than they had in the first. There are doubts and insecurities, strength and heroism, good and evil, love and rejection. We get a more real idea of what it could be like to be a super hero, it's not all good.

Tobey Maguire returns as Peter Parker, and things have changed since we last saw him. He is no longer close with MJ or Harry and he is struggling to make ends meet. It is hard trying to save the world while also trying for your college degree AND hold down a job to pay for a lousy apartment. I never really thought much of Maguire as an actor before he was picked to be Spidey, he always seemed sort of bland, but he really nails this character. He has that innocent idealism about him, always trying to do what's right, yet also feeling conflicted about who he is and what he is supposed to be. Of course, as this is happening, a new villain appears.

This time around we have Dr. Otto Octavius, better known as Dr. Octopus, a scientist who has created a four limbed mechanical attachment to assist in his experiments with fusion. In a freak accident, he becomes fused with these new limbs and is soon locking horns with our hero. Meanwhile, Peter is reunited with MJ, and a not so happy Harry Osbourne.