Spider-Man For Dummies with Eric Grundhauser

·1 hr 13 min·5 clips

Eric Grundhauser reveals how he filtered 60 years of Spider-Man comics into 'Spider-Man for Dummies'.

The episode features an interview with Eric Grundhauser, writer of 'Spider-Man for Dummies'. He begins by describing the difficulty of filtering decades of Spider-Man continuity into an accessible guide, noting he read about 80% of all Spider-Man comics for research. Grundhauser highlights Spider-Man's versatility, able to team up with any Marvel character from Silver Surfer to Wolverine. He recounts his first Spider-Man comic, a Spectacular Spider-Man annual bought at a Montana gas station during the Atlantis Attacks crossover. The discussion moves to favorite villains, with Grundhauser praising Mysterio's weirdness and Vulture's age-based pathos. He revisits the Clone Saga, arguing it's better than its reputation suggests. The hosts probe Grundhauser on Spider-Man's marriage, and he acknowledges the controversy around 'Brand New Day' but sees both sides. He names Miles Morales as his favorite alternate Spider-Person, appreciating his New York roots. Grundhauser critiques modern comic reboots, noting they are now more creator-friendly than the 1990s collector-driven model. He laments the loss of long creative runs and supporting cast development. The conversation touches on event fatigue, with Grundhauser recalling how crossovers like Infinity Gauntlet introduced him to cosmic Marvel. He argues Spider-Man's humanity makes him a perfect window into high-stakes events. Grundhauser also discusses underrated runs, like J.M. DeMatteis and Sal Buscema's 'Funeral Arrangement'. The episode concludes with thoughts on multiverse overuse, particularly how it weakens unique characters like Spider-Man 2099. Grundhauser promotes his book and other projects, including The Strange Ways Almanac.

As heard by us

A lively Spider-Man history lesson finds its shape through Mysterio, Norman Osborn, and decades of continuity.

Spider-Man's long publishing history is the real subject, with writer Eric Grunhauser explaining how Spider-Man for Dummies turns a huge comics record into something approachable for newcomers.

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Why you'd press play

You get a warm Spider-Man for Dummies chat that turns 60-plus years of comics into an inviting crash course, with room for Mysterio's dome and Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers era.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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