Well, I might be a little late at reviewing this film, but, better late than never. So, I'm going to begin my review by saying that I respect ALL opinions and am here to fulfill the sole purpose of representing my views. Do not take any of my judgement as opposing that of yours.
I would like to begin with the character of Peter Parker. Peter Parker was played by Andrew Garfield as a repulsive, tech-savvy, intelligent high school student. Many aspects of his character are very relatable. The inclusion of eye contacts in the beginning of the film was a welcome change and was an aspect of the film that grounded it in modern reality (after all, the film did promise that). For me, Andrew Garfield nails the characterization of a 'modern' Peter Parker and even makes him more believable. The gadgets (like the ones in his bedroom) represent his intelligence and makes it not such a surprise when he begins developing his own web-shooter. Even though I like the old Spider-Man, one must admit that Garfield perfectly portrays the modern day teenager. He does so in a way that he is almost incomparable to Macguire's Peter Parker.
Rhys Ifans was great as Curt Connors but I feel that we didn't get to see more of him as Connors as the film mainly dealt with the origin of Spider-Man. Maybe that's a good thing as IT IS AN ORIGIN STORY AFTER ALL. I think he was good but he could have been better as his motives weren't efficiently revealed.
Supporting actors such as Emma Stone, Irrfan Khan, Denis Leary, Sally Field played their roles beautifully. I love Denis Leary's role as Capt. George Stacy. He represented well, the mentality of the modern-day cop in terms of opinions on outlaws and vigilantes.
Even though I favor the original Spider-Man costume, I think this new costume is more fitting to the tone of the film. It has inevitably used the 'Batman Begins-formula' but does adapt that formula according to the character portrayed.
3D was sadly not used up to the mark that one would expect after knowing that it was shot in 3D. But it was used well in the last 45 minutes or so. I hope that they choose to film the sequels in 3D, too, but this time really take advantage of it in the WHOLE FILM. The visual effects were AMAZING (in case you're wondering, yes, pun definitely intended). The end scene was so brilliant that I still remember it. The whole rubber-band concept with the web that was not used in earlier films was a GREAT ADDITION and it enhanced the last scene of the film.
All in all, although the film is not perfect, it is able to present to the audiences a fresh, modern, believable superhero thanks to the direction of Marc Webb (did anyone, btw, notice the similarities between his last name and the film). Great cast, great story, great effects, great humor make this film a must-watch. Please sound off your comments below.