Spider-Man Theory May Change How You See Brand New Day's Ending
This article contains spoilers for Spider-Man: Brand New Day. You've been warned.
A new Spider-Man: Brand New Day fan theory may help explain the ending of the film.
During the climax of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Peter Parker orders Doctor Strange to cast a spell that will make everyone forget about Peter Parker, including his friends and loved ones. It's a powerful moment of self-sacrifice, but one that takes a mental toll on Peter. He's now totally alone; his girlfriend has moved on and has no memory of him, and his best friend has forgotten him.
At the end of Brand New Day, both MJ and Ned appear to be remembering Peter. MJ is seen crying on the rooftop of Midtown High, where the trio would frequently hang out, while also holding on to the necklace Peter gave her. It's not explicitly said, but it seems clear that she is wrestling with her forgotten past in some capacity. However, the more widely-debated scene is the final moment of the film.
Peter reintroduces himself to Ned at a bodega and does their signature handshake, which Ned seems to subconsciously remember. He then exclaims, "Peter!" before it cuts to black. Many viewers believe this signals that the spell is broken for Ned, while others think it's not as cut and dry. However, one TikTok user suggested that there's more magic at play.
@yayaahlyzee he is like part wizard now ?? rewatching the older ones after seeing brand new day and i dont remember that happening . at the end of bnd they do the hand shake , was that enough to give him his memories back ? #spiderman #spidermannowayhome #spidermanbrandnewday #fyp #ned ♬ SPIDER-MAN: Brand New Day - Trailer Music - Ayhan Music
In Spider-Man: No Way Home, Ned and Peter do their handshake after Ned has begun to show signs that he is capable of producing magic using Doctor Strange's sling ring. Later in the film, he conjures portals that introduce the other Spider-Men. Is it possible that the handshake is now charged with magic, and that this, in turn, breaks the spell at the end of Brand New Day? Who's to say! But it's certainly a compelling theory.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ned's actor, Jacob Batalon, addressed the ending, but wouldn't confirm or deny any theories or implications it may have.
"First and foremost, does Ned actually remember him, though?" asked Batalon. "It seems a little open-ended. What if it’s just muscle memory? What if he just remembers that handshake but nothing else about Peter? What if he just repeats 'Peter' because that’s what Peter says his name is in that moment? I don’t know. I feel like it’s really up to interpretation for everyone. For me, I think it’s a really cool little nod, so hopefully things happen from there."
He went on to suggest that there might be a "a slight glint or little glimmer" of recognition, though.
It's unclear when we will see the next Spider-Man film with Tom Holland. Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige has noted that there are plans for more Spidey adventures and Holland sees a long-term plan that will eventually introduce Miles Morales into the MCU. After Brand New Day shattered box office records, it seems difficult to imagine Sony and Marvel will waste much time, but there's nothing officially on the slate yet.
Cade Onder is a freelancer for IGN's news team. He covers all things entertainment, including gaming, film, and more. You can find him on Twitter @Cade_Onder.