Nicolas Cage Stars as Gritty Detective in Upcoming Spider-Noir Set in Rain-Soaked New York

The first trailer for Spider-Noir has been released, setting a distinct tone for this upcoming series. Set in a rainy 1930s New York, the show diverges from the typical bright and quippy superhero narratives, immersing viewers in a shadowy world where crime is rampant and justice is delivered by a man in a fedora and trench coat. This series introduces a different kind of Spider-Man, with Nicolas Cage portraying the lead role of Ben Reilly, known as The Spider. Unlike the traditional Peter Parker, Reilly is a battered and haunted character, whose return to the mask is driven by circumstance and personal loss rather than heroism.

Drawing inspiration from the Spider-Man Noir comic series, Spider-Noir emphasizes a detective-driven, vintage crime-story style. The narrative is steeped in corruption, secrets, and ominous cases, aligning more closely with a noir thriller than a conventional superhero tale. At its heart is a private investigator compelled to confront his past and reassume a role he wishes to escape.

The series boasts a strong cast, with Lamorne Morris as Robbie Robertson, Li Jun Li as Cat Hardy, and Brendan Gleeson as the crime boss Silvermane. The trailer also hints at the presence of Flint Marko, also known as Sandman. This ensemble promises a blend of drama, tension, and bold character portrayals, essential for the gritty noir atmosphere the series aims to achieve.

A notable creative decision is the availability of the show in both black-and-white and full color, allowing viewers to choose the style that best suits their preference. This choice underscores the project's commitment to mood and craftsmanship, alongside its plot and action.

Spider-Noir is set to premiere on MGM+ on May 25, 2026, with a global release on Prime Video two days later. The series is anticipated to be a standout entry in the broader Spider-Verse, offering a darker and more grounded perspective on a well-known myth. Fans of shadowy mysteries, hard-boiled detective stories, and alternate takes on iconic characters will likely find this series appealing.

The series will consist of one season with eight episodes, categorized under mystery, crime, action, and adventure. It follows Ben Reilly, an aging and down-on-his-luck private investigator in 1930s New York, who must confront his past life as the city's sole superhero. The cast includes Nicolas Cage as Ben Reilly/The Spider, Lamorne Morris as Robbie Robertson, Li Jun Li as Cat Hardy, Karen Rodriguez as Janet, Abraham Popoola, Jack Huston as Flint Marko, and Brendan Gleeson as Silvermane.