WARNING! Spoilers for Ultimate Spider-Man #14
Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy has become a beloved cornerstone for fans, many of whom grew up watching these iconic films. Interestingly, elements from this cinematic landmark have re-emerged in Marvel Comics’ revamped Ultimate Universe, particularly involving James Franco’s take on the New Goblin. This revival brings a fresh twist to familiar themes as the Spider-Man narrative expands further.
Harry Osborn, portrayed by Franco in Spider-Man 3, experiences a significant transformation that leads him into the role of the New Goblin. Straying from his father’s ominous legacy, Harry dons high-tech gear and a modernized glider, setting himself apart from the classic goblin persona.
Now, in Ultimate Spider-Man, crafted by Jonathan Hickman and Marco Checchetto, we see a reinterpretation of the Green Goblin that pays homage to this cinematic evolution. Harry Osborn reclaims the Goblin identity, infusing it with his own unique characteristics reminiscent of Franco’s portrayal.
A Notable Callback to Spider-Man 3
Harry Osborn Revives the New Goblin Legacy in Marvel Comics
The Ultimate Universe reimagines Marvel’s comic continuity, where the Maker seeks to eliminate superheroes entirely. In a twist of fate, Peter Parker’s path to becoming Spider-Man is altered when he is bitten by a radioactive spider. Soon after gaining his powers, he encounters a new vigilante—the Green Goblin—who is actually Harry Osborn. This version of the Goblin showcases design elements from Spider-Man 3, particularly aligning with Harry’s technologically advanced aesthetic rather than the traditional Norman Osborn look.
This rendition features a high-tech costume, trading in the whimsical mask for an armored alternative akin to the New Goblin. This modernized approach positions Harry more as a successor to the New Goblin than earlier adaptations typically achieve. Interestingly, both interpretations share a complex relationship dynamic with Spider-Man, as neither Harry Osborn is portrayed as a straightforward villain, allowing for nuanced storytelling.
Echoes of the Raimi Trilogy: Mirroring the New Goblin’s Story
Similar Yet Distinct: Key Differences Between Harry Osborns
A primary similarity between the Ultimate Green Goblin and the New Goblin from Spider-Man 3 lies in their relationships with Peter Parker. In the Ultimate Universe, Harry discovers his heroic calling later in life and forms a close bond with Peter as they fight crime together. Whereas, the Raimi trilogy features Harry as Peter’s childhood friend, highlighting their estrangement following the death of Norman Osborn. Both versions, however, grapple with their father’s approval, an unresolved issue that haunts them throughout their respective arcs.
Despite their overlaps, distinct differences are present in their motivations. In Spider-Man 3, Harry becomes the New Goblin seeking revenge against Peter, whom he blames for his father’s demise. In contrast, Ultimate Green Goblin arises from a desire for justice and does not harbor the same animosity. Both characters, nonetheless, experience transformative arcs that lead them toward redemption or reconciliation with Spider-Man.
Tragic Ends: The Impact of Green Goblin Deaths on Spider-Man
The Pain of Losing Harry Osborn in Different Realities
The narrative threads connecting these two versions of Harry Osborn further intertwine as they both endure heart-wrenching losses. In Spider-Man 3, Harry ultimately sacrifices his life to save Peter during the climactic battle against Venom and Sandman. This act leaves a lasting sorrow for Spider-Man, marking a pivotal moment in his journey as a hero.
Similarly, in Ultimate Spider-Man #14, Harry faces an unfortunate fate at the hands of Kraven the Hunter, who has captured both him and Peter. While attempting to escape a deadly game in the Savage Land, Harry’s life is tragically cut short when Kraven decides to make an example of him. In both iterations, the loss of Harry Osborn profoundly affects Spider-Man, leaving an impactful legacy in his life.
Reviving Classic Elements from Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man
Ultimate Sandman: A Fan-Favorite Returns
The return of Harry Osborn as the Green Goblin isn’t the only nostalgic element resurfacing in the Ultimate Universe. In Ultimate Spider-Man #15, Spider-Man encounters a version of Sandman that echoes his portrayal in Raimi’s trilogy, leveraging the character’s more sympathetic qualities to enrich the story. While the Ultimate Universe does not replicate the films directly, it draws significant inspiration from them, supplying long-time fans with the closure and excitement they’ve been eagerly anticipating.
Ultimate Spider-Man #1-15 are now available from Marvel Comics!