Amazon has unveiled new images and plot details for the upcoming live-action Nicolas Cage Spider-Noir series, a dark spin-off within the Spider-Man multiverse first introduced in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The series centers on Ben Reilly, also known as The Spider, as he investigates ongoing assassination attempts targeting a New York crime lord named Silvermane.
Overview of the Spider-Noir Storyline
Set in an alternate 1930s New York City, the Spider-Noir storyline follows Ben Reilly, an older and hardened version of Spider-Man working as a private detective. The narrative focuses on Silvermane, a philosophical but dangerous mob boss played by Brendan Gleeson, who faces repeated attempts on his life. As Reilly digs deeper, he suspects a wider conspiracy may be at work, especially after an arsonist with the ability to ignite fire with his hands targets Silvermane’s mansion.
During his investigation, Reilly encounters Flint Marko, played by Jack Huston, a tough bodyguard who doesn’t shy away from physical confrontations. Unlike typical superhero tales, this version of Spider-Man is grittier and more morally ambiguous.
Distinctive Elements and Character Approach
Ben Reilly takes on the title “The Spider” rather than Spider-Man, a change driven by the noir style of storytelling, emphasizing the character’s more cynical, world-weary nature. Nicolas Cage described his portrayal as a blend of classic film noir and animated wit, saying his character is,
“70 percent Humphrey Bogart and 30 percent Bugs Bunny.”
Nicolas Cage
He further added,
“I was basically Mel Blanc doing Bogart, with that sarcastic sense of humor. But it’s 100 percent me.”
Nicolas Cage
Co-executive producer Chris Miller highlighted the contrast between this series’ protagonist and the Peter Parker seen in recent movies:
“This character is very different from the Peter Parker in the movies. He’s older and jaded, and not afraid to drunkenly punch a guy in the face.”
Chris Miller
Comprehensive Cast Lineup
- Nicolas Cage stars as Ben Reilly / The Spider, a grizzled detective and superhero navigating a dark, alternate New York.
- Lamorne Morris portrays Robbie Robertson, a determined journalist willing to take risks to advance his career.
- Brendan Gleeson plays Silvermane, the philosophical mob boss at the center of multiple assassination attempts.
- Li Jun Li features as Cat Hardy, a nightclub singer in this shadowy version of New York City.
- Abraham Popoola appears as a World War I veteran seeking new opportunities.
- Jack Huston takes on the role of Flint Marko, a bodyguard involved in violent confrontations.
- Karen Rodriguez acts as Janet, Reilly’s trusted secretary.
- Lukas Haas fills the role of an associate within Silvermane’s criminal organization.
- Additional cast members with undisclosed roles include Cameron Britton, Cary Christopher, Michael Kostroff, Scott MacArthur, Joe Massingill, Whitney Rice, Amanda Schull, Andrew Lewis Caldwell, Amy Aquino, and Andrew Robinson.
Creative Team and Production Details
Oren Uziel, known for 22 Jump Street, and Steve Lightfoot, who worked on The Punisher, serve as co-showrunners and executive producers for Spider-Noir. The series benefits from the involvement of Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and Amy Pascal, who also produced Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and remain executive producers here. Harry Bradbeer directs the first two episodes while also executive producing, with Amy Pascal producing under Pascal Pictures.
This series is a joint production between Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios, with Lord and Miller operating under an overall deal with Sony.
Release and Availability
Spider-Noir will premiere on MGM+’s linear channel in the United States, followed by a worldwide streaming debut on Amazon Prime Video scheduled for this spring. This new take on the Spider-Man universe adds a somber, noir-flavored chapter to the multiverse, blending mystery, crime drama, and superhero elements in a way that distinguishes it from previous interpretations.
