Spider-Man 4’s Punisher Addition Can Help the MCU Recreate the Civil War Comic’s Most Iconic Moment

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Peter Parker stands out as one of the kindest superheroes, often seeing the best in others even when it puts him in precarious situations. For instance, in ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’, he trusts Mysterio, despite feeling uncertain about his backstory, and goes the extra mile to aid supposed villains in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. This unwavering optimism also draws good people towards him, such as Iron Man and various Spider-Men, who lend their support and guidance throughout his adventures. However, with everyone else seemingly out of the picture, Peter will be forced to join forces with a troubled ally in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’.

In 2026, the big screen will introduce Jon Bernthal’s Punisher for the first time, as he appears in the fourth Spider-Man film. The specifics of his role in “Brand New Day” are yet unknown, but it’s certain that there will be a clash of principles between the anti-hero and Spider-Man, who refrains from taking lives. However, there is one significant comic book moment that unites these characters, and the MCU has all the components required to bring this adaptation to life.

Spider-Man Is Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place in “Civil War”

In a manner similar to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Civil War” storyline, this comic event splits the Avengers into opposing factions. The Superhero Registration Act becomes the center of conflict between Iron Man and Captain America, with other heroes being forced to choose their allegiance. Spider-Man finds it distressing to see his friends at odds, but Iron Man manages to persuade him to disclose his true identity publicly – an unprecedented move in the Marvel Universe as Spider-Man’s identity has always remained secret. However, Peter Parker doesn’t get to bask in the glory of this revelation for long before Tony Stark crosses a line by imprisoning people inside a facility built in the Negative Zone.

In remorse for his actions, Peter attempts to depart from Tony, but a brawl ensues instead. Two henchmen of Tony, Jester and Jack O’Lantern, locate Peter and inflict severe injuries upon him. Remarkably, the hero manages to escape due to the timely intervention of the Punisher, who slays the aggressors. With Peter severely wounded, the Punisher, or Frank Castle, transports him to Captain America’s base and proposes joining the battle. The image of the Punisher carrying a bloodied Peter is one of the standout moments from the event, making it ripe for adaptation by the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Punisher Can Have His “Civil War” Moment in Brand New Day

In the third “Captain America” film, although it followed the general outline of “Civil War,” it omitted crucial parts of the narrative. Spiderman first appeared in the MCU during this movie, but his true identity was not disclosed until “Far From Home.” Throughout “No Way Home,” Peter is preoccupied with reversing Mysterio’s deeds, and he finally manages to do so by making everyone, including a friend of his, forget about his identity. “Brand New Day” will resume the story following this event, with Peter attempting to construct a fresh existence for himself while still functioning as Spiderman.

In the upcoming series Brand New Day, it’s uncertain if any main antagonists will be present. This could open the door for lesser-known criminals such as Jester and Jack O’Lantern to cause trouble for Spider-Man during his solo missions. If this happens, Frank Castle, also known as The Punisher, might become aware of the situation and intervene to support the local hero. After defeating the villains, he could bring Spider-Man back to his hideout, where they may engage in a debate about the morality of taking lives. Frank often argues this point with Daredevil, but Spider-Man, with his optimistic perspective on life, might be more convincing. Though it’s unlikely that Spider-Man will permanently change The Punisher’s ways, he may manage to persuade him to modify his tactics for a short while as they team up during this adventure.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day hits theaters on July 31, 2026.

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2025-06-25 20:12