The Amazing Spider-Man 2‘s ending was almost very different, with the film’s alternate conclusion having the potential to have reshaped the hero’s cinematic history. Andrew Garfield’s two-film arc came to a close with the 2014 sequel, and the role was recast for the MCU ahead of Captain America: Civil War in 2016. However, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 was more than just a conclusion – it also teased a future that never came to pass.
Though every Spider-Man movie takes place within a wider continuity, The Amazing Spider-Man movies put a unique spin on the hero’s story. Garfield’s Spider-Man origins were directly linked to his parents’ research and mysterious death, with multiple hints to a conspiracy surrounding their disappearance. As The Amazing Spider-Man 2 was the last of Garfield’s solo outings as the wall-crawling hero, those teases were never paid off.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2‘s alternate ending saw Peter Parker grieving at Gwen Stacy’s grave when he was approached by his father. The elder Parker reveals he was forced into hiding to protect Peter, prompting a powerful reaction from his grieving son. Andrew Garfield’s powerful performance in the scene is incredible, but the scene’s impact could have been more than just emotional.
Richard Parker’s Appearance Would Have Changed Spider-Man’s Cinematic Future
Though The Amazing Spider-Man 2 teased a sequel in several ways, the alternate ending would have changed everything. By ending with such a huge revelation and an unforgettable performance from Garfield, the film’s alternate conclusion could have impacted the chances of a further sequel. With such a concrete set-up for an answer to one of The Amazing Spider-Man‘s greatest mysteries, another movie would have been a much more appealing prospect.
What’s more, Garfield’s performance in the scene brought an additional level to his version of the character. His presence as an actor and the incredibly emotional nature of the alternate ending would likely have sold studios and audiences alike on a further movie in the franchise. On top of that, dangling answers to Peter’s burning questions cemented The Amazing Spider-Man 3‘s chances.
Considering the timing of the movie’s release, another sequel would have prevented Marvel from introducing Spider-Man into the MCU. A third movie likely would have meant that Tom Holland wouldn’t have been cast in the role, and given Garfield a greater chance to become the definitive Spider-Man. Ultimately, as the alternate ending wasn’t made canon, the future it could have created was destined never to come to pass.