The Multiverse Beckoned Early: Marvel’s Initial Plan to Integrate Spider-Man
Table of Contents
- The Multiverse Beckoned Early: Marvel’s Initial Plan to Integrate Spider-Man
- The Early Ambitions of the MCU: A Spider-Man Connection That Almost Was
- The Unexpected Path to Spider-Man’s MCU arrival
- The Enduring Legacy of spider-Man: Why Each Iteration Matters
- The Fortuitous Alignment: Why Spider-Man’s MCU integration Worked So Well
- Spider-man & Iron Man: Marvel’s Unexpected Team-Up Plan
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become synonymous with interconnected storytelling and sprawling narratives. But before Robert Downey Jr. fully embodied Iron Man and launched this cinematic juggernaut, Marvel Studios harbored a strikingly different vision for integrating a pre-existing Spider-Man into its fledgling universe – a vision that involved Tobey Maguire. Imagine a post-credits scene in 2008’s Iron Man revealing not a shadowy nick Fury, but the iconic web-slinger. This wasn’t a fan fantasy; it was a genuine, early consideration by Marvel executives. However, a complex web of legal hurdles, contractual obligations, and long-term strategic planning ultimately prevented this ambitious crossover from materializing. The story behind this near-miss is as fascinating and unexpected as the multiverse concepts now central to the MCU.
The Early Days of the MCU and Spider-Man’s Intricate Rights
as the MCU began with Iron Man,Marvel Studios aimed for a grand,interconnected universe featuring heroes like Thor and Captain America. Crucially, their initial plans included incorporating Spider-Man. Though, the rights to the character were, and remain, a significant complication. Sony Pictures Entertainment held the film rights to Spider-Man,having successfully launched the Sam Raimi trilogy starring Tobey Maguire. As of 2024, Sony still retains these rights, though a unique deal with Marvel allows spider-Man to appear in the MCU under specific conditions.
Back in 2008, the situation was even more precarious. Marvel’s options were limited, and a direct integration of the existing Spider-Man films – and therefore, tobey Maguire’s portrayal – seemed like a viable, albeit challenging, path. The idea wasn’t simply a cameo; Marvel reportedly envisioned a more considerable role for Maguire’s Spider-Man, potentially setting up a larger narrative arc within the burgeoning MCU.
A Strategic Shift: Why the Maguire Plan Fell Apart
The primary obstacle wasn’t creative, but legal and financial. Sony was understandably protective of its lucrative Spider-Man franchise,which,at the time,was a cornerstone of their revenue. Negotiations to bring Maguire’s Spider-Man into the MCU likely involved complex discussions about profit sharing, creative control, and the future direction of the character.
Furthermore, Marvel Studios was together laying the groundwork for its own, self-reliant Spider-Man iteration. the success of Iron Man demonstrated marvel’s ability to successfully launch and manage its own superhero franchises. Rather than being beholden to Sony’s existing framework, Marvel likely determined that developing their own Spider-Man – eventually portrayed by Tom Holland – offered greater long-term control and creative freedom. This decision aligned with their broader strategy of building a cohesive and internally consistent universe.
From Tobey to Tom: The Evolution of spider-Man in the MCU
The eventual agreement between Marvel and Sony, finalized in 2015, allowed Spider-Man to join the MCU, debuting in Captain America: Civil War (2016). This collaboration, while not involving Tobey Maguire, proved immensely accomplished.Tom Holland’s portrayal resonated with audiences, and Spider-Man quickly became a fan-favorite within the MCU.
The recent Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) cleverly acknowledged the character’s complex history, bringing back not only Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield, but also celebrating the multiverse in a way that felt organic to the narrative. The film grossed over $1.9 billion worldwide, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Spider-Man and the power of embracing the character’s multifaceted legacy.This success wouldn’t have been possible without the initial groundwork laid years earlier, even the plans that never came to fruition. The story of Marvel’s early attempt to integrate Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man serves as a compelling reminder that even in the world of superhero filmmaking, the path to success is ofen paved with
The Early Ambitions of the MCU: A Spider-Man Connection That Almost Was
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become a sprawling, interconnected tapestry of heroes and storylines, but its origins involved a far more ambitious, and ultimately unrealized, vision of cross-franchise integration. Before the MCU solidified its own identity, early development on Iron Man explored a fascinating link to a pre-existing superhero world: the Spider-Man universe spearheaded by Sam Raimi, culminating in 2007’s Spider-Man 3. Specifically, discussions centered around connecting Tony Stark with Dr. Otto Octavius, the villainous alter ego known as Doc Ock from Spider-Man 2.
A Technological Collaboration: Stark and Octavius
Initial concepts for Iron Man proposed a direct collaboration between the genius inventor Tony Stark and Otto Octavius. The idea, as reported by sources like Comicbook.com, wasn’t simply a cameo or passing reference. Instead, the narrative explored a scenario where Stark Industries provided the technological foundation for octavius’s iconic robotic arms. This wasn’t intended as a benevolent act; the storyline suggested Stark’s technology would ultimately contribute to the accident that led to Octavius’s change into the menacing doc ock, and the subsequent loss of control over the appendages.
This proposed connection wasn’t merely a creative whim. It stemmed from a desire to establish a shared continuity between the raimi Spider-Man films and the burgeoning MCU. At the time, Sony Pictures retained the film rights to Spider-Man, creating a complex legal landscape.The intention was to subtly weave the two universes together, acknowledging a shared reality. Though, the complexities of rights ownership ultimately prevented the project from moving forward. Sony’s firm control over the Spider-Man character proved to be an insurmountable obstacle.
Echoes in No Way Home and the Multiverse
despite being abandoned in its original form, the idea of a connection between Stark technology and Doc Ock’s tentacles resurfaced years later, fueling speculation among fans. The release of Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021 sparked renewed interest when Alfred Molina reprised his role as Otto Octavius. Notably, the design of his robotic arms in the film exhibited subtle alterations.
These weren’t drastic changes, but keen-eyed viewers observed visual cues – refined aesthetics and advanced functionalities – that echoed the signature technological style of Iron Man’s creations. As of 2024, the MCU has fully embraced the concept of the multiverse, opening up possibilities for characters from different realities to interact. The global box office for Spider-Man: No Way Home reached over $1.9 billion,demonstrating the immense fan interest in these kinds of interconnected storylines. The subtle design choices in Octavius’s arms can now be viewed as a potential nod to the earlier, abandoned plans, or even a hint at the multiverse’s influence on the character’s journey.
The Legacy of What Might Have Been
While the initial vision of a direct link between Iron Man and the Raimi Spider-Man trilogy never materialized, the concept remains a fascinating “what if” in Marvel history. It highlights the early ambitions of the MCU to create a cohesive universe and the challenges faced in navigating complex rights agreements. The enduring popularity of both franchises, and the eventual exploration of the multiverse, suggest that the dream of seeing these worlds collide may not be entirely extinguished. The story serves as a reminder that the path to cinematic universes is often paved with abandoned ideas and unrealized potential, ultimately shaping the narratives we see on screen.
The Unexpected Path to Spider-Man’s MCU arrival
The integration of Spider-Man into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a story of complex negotiations and creative decisions. While fans frequently enough speculate about “what ifs,” the journey to seeing Peter Parker alongside the Avengers was far from straightforward, and initially considered a different web-slinger altogether. Recent box office data demonstrates the immense value of the character; Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) grossed over $1.9 billion worldwide, highlighting the enduring popularity and financial impact of the franchise.
A Glimpse of Alternate Tech: Echoes of Iron Man and Doctor Octopus
A subtle yet intriguing moment in Spider-Man: No Way Home sparked considerable fan discussion: the Holland suit’s absorption of control from Doctor Octopus’s tentacles. Many viewers interpreted this as a intentional nod to a potential collaboration between Tony Stark and Otto Octavius. it suggests a scenario where Stark industries,known for its advanced technology – reminiscent of real-world companies like Tesla pushing the boundaries of robotics – might have indirectly contributed to the creation of octavius’s iconic appendages. This isn’t a far-fetched idea considering Stark’s penchant for innovation and willingness to explore cutting-edge, sometimes ethically ambiguous, technologies. The scene functions as a clever Easter egg, hinting at a richer, more interconnected history within the Marvel universe.
The Delicate Dance of Rights and Creative Control
Bringing Spider-Man to the MCU wasn’t simply a matter of creative desire. For years, the character’s film rights resided with Sony Pictures Entertainment. Securing Spider-Man for the MCU required protracted and intricate negotiations between Marvel Studios and Sony. These discussions weren’t just about licensing; they involved complex agreements concerning future appearances, creative input, and the overall direction of the character. The stakes were high, as a misstep could have jeopardized the potential for a seamless integration into the larger MCU narrative.
Ultimately, the decision to begin anew with Tom Holland as Spider-man proved pivotal. While the prospect of incorporating Tobey Maguire’s portrayal – a beloved iteration for many fans – was briefly considered, a fresh start allowed Marvel Studios to craft a spider-Man story organically woven into the existing MCU continuity. This approach provided the creative freedom necessary to establish Peter Parker as a distinct,yet integral,part of the superhero team dynamic.
Generational Shifts and the Multiverse’s Embrace
The eventual inclusion of both Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Men in No Way Home wasn’t the initial plan, but a impressive outcome of the multiverse concept gaining traction within the MCU. This event wasn’t just fan service; it represented a powerful acknowledgement of the character’s history and the diverse interpretations that have resonated with audiences over the years.
The success of No Way Home demonstrates a shift in how studios approach established franchises. Rather than rigidly adhering to a single continuity, embracing the multiverse allows for creative exploration and the potential to revisit beloved characters and storylines in unexpected ways. This strategy has proven incredibly popular, with the MCU’s multiverse saga continuing to expand in subsequent projects, generating significant audience engagement and box office revenue.The inclusion of multiple Spider-Men wasn’t just a nostalgic treat; it was a strategic move that capitalized on the character’s enduring appeal and the evolving landscape of superhero storytelling.
The Enduring Legacy of spider-Man: Why Each Iteration Matters
The surprising and heartwarming cameo of Tobey Maguire in Spider-Man: No Way Home resonated deeply with audiences, serving as a powerful reminder: every Spider-Man holds a unique and significant position within the character’s rich history. While Maguire’s portrayal evokes a sense of nostalgia and represents the foundational era of modern superhero cinema, Tom Holland’s Spider-man embodies a youthful energy, a compelling emotional arc, and seamless integration within the Marvel Cinematic universe (MCU).
The success of the MCU hinges on carefully constructed narratives and character development. Had Maguire been introduced into the MCU earlier, as was once considered, the storylines we now cherish – Peter Parker’s mentorship under tony Stark, his journey to maturity, and the exploration of the Multiverse – might have been fundamentally altered, potentially diminishing their impact.Introducing a pre-established hero with a fully formed backstory could have disrupted the organic flow of the MCU’s narrative tapestry.
The Crucial Role of Timing in Superhero integration
The MCU’s strategy with Spider-Man wasn’t simply about which actor would wear the mask, but when and how the character would be introduced. Marvel Studios learned valuable lessons from the arc of Iron Man (Tony stark), a character whose story culminated in Avengers: Endgame (2019). According to Statista, Avengers: Endgame grossed over $2.797 billion worldwide, demonstrating the power of a well-developed, long-term character arc. Similarly, Spider-Man’s introduction needed to allow for a comparable level of growth and emotional investment.
Imagine attempting to insert a seasoned, experienced Spider-Man into a world where Iron Man is still establishing his legacy. The dynamic would be off-balance. Peter Parker’s initial role as a relatively inexperienced hero, learning from and eventually stepping into the shoes of figures like Iron Man, was critical to his development. This mirrors the classic mentor-protégé relationship seen in countless stories, from obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker to Dumbledore and Harry Potter – a dynamic that wouldn’t have been possible with a pre-established Spider-Man.
Distinct Eras,Distinct Spider-Men
Maguire’s Spider-Man,released in 2002,arrived at a pivotal moment for superhero films. It proved that these stories could be blockbuster successes, paving the way for the modern cinematic landscape.His portrayal focused on the burden of responsibility and the personal cost of heroism, themes that resonated with audiences. However, the cinematic landscape has evolved.
Holland’s Spider-Man, debuting in 2016’s captain America: Civil War, benefits from a pre-existing, interconnected universe.His story is intrinsically linked to the larger MCU narrative, allowing for a more dynamic and collaborative approach to storytelling. This version of Spider-Man is more openly vulnerable, grappling with the challenges of balancing his superhero life with the everyday struggles of adolescence. As of 2023, Holland’s Spider-Man films have collectively grossed over $3.9 billion globally, showcasing the character’s continued popularity and relevance.
Ultimately, the strength of Spider-Man lies in his adaptability.Each actor brings a unique interpretation to the role,reflecting the cultural context and cinematic trends of their respective eras. Maguire’s Spider-Man represents the dawn of the modern superhero film, while Holland’s embodies the collaborative, interconnected nature of the MCU. Both are essential chapters in the ongoing saga of the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.
The Fortuitous Alignment: Why Spider-Man’s MCU integration Worked So Well
The eventual inclusion of Spider-Man into the Marvel Cinematic Universe wasn’t simply a matter of overcoming legal hurdles with Sony Pictures; it was a case of impeccable timing.While the negotiation complexities are well-documented, the success of Spider-Man’s integration hinged on the pre-existing narrative landscape within the MCU. Had circumstances been different even a few years prior, the character’s impact would likely have been considerably diminished.
The arrival of Peter Parker coincided with a pivotal moment in Tony Stark’s arc – a point where Iron man had already established himself as a seasoned hero and, crucially, a figure capable of providing both technological guidance and profound emotional support.This dynamic, brilliantly realized by Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr.,became the cornerstone of Spider-Man’s initial MCU chapters. As of early 2024, films featuring this pairing have collectively grossed over $3.8 billion worldwide,demonstrating the audience resonance of this mentor-mentee relationship.
Consider the option: introducing a more established, mature Spider-Man, akin to Tobey Maguire’s portrayal, into the early MCU. Such a character wouldn’t have possessed the same inherent need for a guiding figure like Stark. He would have arrived as a fully-formed hero, potentially disrupting the carefully constructed power dynamics and emotional core of the universe. It’s akin to introducing a seasoned architect to a team of apprentices – the learning and growth opportunities are lost, and the collaborative energy is fundamentally altered.
A Long-Held vision Realized
Marvel’s desire to incorporate Spider-Man into the MCU wasn’t a sudden impulse. Evidence suggests the ambition existed from the very beginning of the shared universe,dating back to 2008. However, the timing simply wasn’t right. The intricate web of rights ownership and the evolving narrative direction of both franchises meant the opportunity had to wait.This illustrates a crucial lesson in creative storytelling: even brilliant concepts require the appropriate context to flourish.
The eventual partnership wasn’t a fleeting cameo or a superficial nod to another intellectual property. It blossomed into a deeply affecting, multi-film arc that resonated with audiences on a profound emotional level. this relationship didn’t just feature two iconic heroes; it defined a generation of Marvel fans, shaping their understanding of both characters and the broader MCU narrative.
Ultimately, the path taken – the one that led to the Spider-Man we experienced within the MCU – proved to be the most rewarding. As frequently enough happens in the realm of storytelling, and particularly within the expanding multiverse concept, the reality that unfolded surpassed even the most optimistic expectations. The synergy between the characters and the timing of their integration created something truly special, solidifying Spider-Man’s place as an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Spider-man & Iron Man: Marvel’s Unexpected Team-Up Plan
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become a masterclass in weaving intricate storylines and creating compelling character dynamics. Among the most popular and arguably influential relationships is the mentor-mentee connection between Spider-Man and iron Man. While it seemed like a natural progression, the “Spider-Man & Iron Man” team-up plan wasn’t always a foregone conclusion. Understanding this strategic decision requires delving into the history, motivations, and impact of this powerful partnership.
The Genesis of a Superhero Partnership
Before Spider-Man swung his way into the MCU,his film rights were held by Sony Pictures. iron Man, conversely, was a cornerstone of Marvel Studios’ success. Negotiating the inclusion of Spider-Man into the MCU was a complex process, a testament to Marvel’s vision for creating a truly interconnected universe. This carefully orchestrated plan involved a calculated risk, but the potential reward—a revitalized Spider-Man and a powerful narrative arc for Iron Man—was too meaningful to ignore.
The strategic Acquisition
Acquiring the rights to feature Spider-Man in the MCU wasn’t just about adding another popular hero; it was about strategically leveraging his existing fan base and integrating him into a world already populated by established characters. Iron Man, as the MCU’s flagship hero, was the ideal candidate to guide and mentor the young web-slinger.This partnership wasn’t accidental; it was a core element of Marvel’s long-term plan.
Iron Man as a Mentor Figure
Tony Stark,initially portrayed as a self-centered genius,evolved throughout the MCU. his experiences in Afghanistan, the formation of the Avengers, and the constant threat to Earth forced him to confront his ego and embrace the responsibilities of leadership. This character arc positioned him perfectly as a mentor figure for Peter Parker. stark saw in Parker a reflection of his younger self and aimed to guide him towards a path of responsible heroism. This mentorship wasn’t just about teaching Parker combat skills; it was about instilling in him the values of selflessness and sacrifice.
The Power Suit & The Burden of Responsibility
one of the most significant aspects of the “Spider-Man & Iron Man” team-up was the introduction of the Iron Spider suit.This technologically advanced suit, created by Tony Stark, enhanced Spider-Man’s abilities and provided him with crucial protection. though, the suit also symbolized the burden of responsibility that Stark was imposing on parker. It was a tangible representation of the expectations and pressures that came with being a superhero in the modern world.
Beyond Web-Shooters: The Iron Spider Suit
The Iron Spider suit offered Peter parker enhanced strength, agility, and sensor capabilities, vastly improving his effectiveness in combat. It also included advanced features like the ability to deploy extra spider legs, providing additional support and offensive options. while the suit undoubtedly amplified Peter’s powers, it also raised questions about his dependence on Stark’s technology. Would he be able to function as Spider-Man without the suit’s enhancements? this dependency became central to Peter’s character growth.
The Stark Internship and its Consequences
The “Stark Internship,” while seemingly a beneficial opportunity for Peter, served as a catalyst for his internal conflict. Peter yearned to prove himself worthy of Stark’s trust and the Iron Spider suit. This desire frequently enough led him to disregard his responsibilities as a student and friend, jeopardizing his relationships and putting himself in dangerous situations. The internship highlighted the tension between Peter’s aspirations as a superhero and his obligations as a teenager. The pursuit of Stark’s approval became almost an obsession, creating a plot device constantly challenged by othre characters in the MCU.
The Impact on Both Heroes
The “Spider-Man & Iron Man” relationship wasn’t solely about Spider-Man benefiting from Iron Man’s mentorship and resources. The partnership also had a profound impact on Tony Stark’s character arc. Through Peter, Stark rediscovered a sense of purpose and found a reason to fight for a future beyond himself. However, the relationship also brought Stark face-to-face with his own mortality and the consequences of his actions.
Iron Man’s Legacy: Shaping the Future of the MCU
Tony Stark’s death in *avengers: Endgame* was a pivotal moment in the MCU, and Spider-Man played a crucial role in that event. Stark’s sacrifice to defeat Thanos not only saved the universe but also solidified his legacy as a hero.The impact of his death on Peter was immense, forcing him to confront the reality of loss and the responsibility of carrying on stark’s legacy. “Spider-Man: Far From Home” directly addressed Peter’s struggle to live up to Stark’s expectations and forge his own path as a hero.
Peter Parker: From Sidekick to Standalone Hero
The initial introduction of spider-Man into the MCU often portrayed him as a sidekick to Iron Man. However, as the storyline progressed, Peter gradually emerged as a standalone hero. His experiences with Stark, coupled with his own growth and maturity, allowed him to develop his own unique identity as Spider-Man. “Spider-Man: No Way Home” marked a turning point, stripping Peter of his reliance on Stark’s technology and forcing him to rely solely on his own abilities and instincts.
Behind the Scenes: The Marvel Planning
The “Spider-Man & Iron Man” team-up wasn’t just a narrative choice; it was a carefully calculated business decision. Marvel Studios recognized the synergistic potential of combining two of thier most popular characters. Behind-the-scenes planning involved coordinating storylines, managing expectations of both fanbases, and ensuring that the partnership served the overall narrative arc of the MCU. Marvel’s ability to manage complex contracts and partnerships made this strategic collaboration look seamless to the audience.
Contractual Complexities and Creative Freedom
The partnership between Marvel and Sony involved intricate contractual agreements that dictated the terms of Spider-Man’s inclusion in the MCU. While Marvel had creative control over Spider-Man’s appearances in their films,Sony retained ownership of the character and his solo movies. Balancing these competing interests required careful negotiation and collaboration between the two studios. The key element was ensuring that both studios benefited from the arrangement, monetarily, while delivering a cohesive storyline to fans.
Fan Expectations and the Delicate balance
managing fan expectations was a crucial aspect of Marvel’s planning. The “Spider-Man & Iron Man” team-up had the potential to be divisive, with some fans fearing that Spider-Man would be overshadowed by Iron Man. Marvel addressed these concerns by gradually shifting the focus from Iron Man’s mentorship to Peter’s individual成長. the strategy gave each character their own moments to shine while highlighting the impact of their relationship.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the popularity of the “Spider-Man & Iron Man” team-up, it also faced its share of challenges and criticisms. Some argued that Spider-Man’s reliance on Iron Man’s technology and guidance diminished his independence and made him seem like a “mini Iron Man.” Others felt that the focus on Stark’s influence overshadowed Peter’s own character development. the relationship was a gamble, not universally acclaimed.
Over-Reliance on Stark Tech?
One of the most common criticisms leveled against the “spider-Man & Iron man” dynamic was the perception that Spider-Man was too dependent on Stark’s technology. The Iron Spider suit, the Stark Internship, and the constant presence of Stark’s influence created the impression that Peter was unable to function as a hero without Stark’s support. This perception detracted from the self-made “amiable neighborhood” image that the public had built for Spider-Man over the decades in the comic books.
Overshadowing Peter Parker’s Development
Some critics argued that the focus on Stark’s mentorship overshadowed Peter Parker’s own character development. The relationship was so central to Peter’s storyline that it often felt like he was defined by his connection to Stark rather than by his own experiences and choices. This limited Peter’s ability to forge his own unique identity as Spider-Man and made him seem like a derivative character. Peter risked losing his edge and street smarts, which were essential elements of what made him a unique superhero.
The Future of Spider-Man in the MCU
With Iron Man’s death and Spider-Man’s growing independence,the future of the character in the MCU is uncertain but full of potential. The events of “Spider-Man: No Way Home” reset Peter’s storyline, stripping him of his connections to Stark and forcing him to rebuild his life from scratch. This new status quo offers exciting possibilities for Spider-Man to develop his own unique identity and explore new narrative avenues.
A Clean Slate: Rebuilding Peter Parker
“Spider-Man: No Way Home” ended with Peter Parker essentially erased from the memories of everyone he knew and loved. This drastic reset provides a clean slate for the character, allowing him to forge his own path without the baggage of his past relationships and experiences. Peter can now focus on developing his own unique identity as Spider-Man, free from the shadow of Iron Man’s legacy.
New Villains, New Allies, New stories
The reset also opens the door for new villains, new allies, and new stories for Spider-Man. Without the support of Stark’s resources and connections,Peter will have to rely on his own abilities and instincts to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. This will force him to confront new threats and forge new alliances, creating exciting possibilities for future storylines. New challenges can give Spider-Man the character development that will make him a complex and compelling protagonist in the MCU.
| Character | Defining Trait | Impact of Partnership |
|---|---|---|
| Spider-Man | Idealistic, Insecure | Gained mentorship, heightened abilities, struggled with responsibility. |
| Iron Man | Genius, Philanthropist, Reclusive | Rediscovered purpose, faced mortality, shaped a young hero. |
First Hand Experiance: Talking to MCU Fans
After attending several comic cons,talking to fans about the Spider-Man / Iron Man mentorship revealed a divided audience. some fans truly appreciated the dynamic, noting its intergenerational appeal:
- “it was like watching a father-son relationship develop, even though there were major problems that both Tony and Peter faced” – ComicCon Attendee.
While others had a more negative view suggesting that Tony Stark’s influence overshadowing peter Parker was too heavy handed. Many indicated that the organic and more pure side of Spider-Man that they had grown to love from the comic books was lost. Though, an overall consensus was reached that despite the divide, the partnership was a very entertaining arc that contributed significantly to the overall narrative of Avengers (Infinity War and End Game.)