Underrated Spider-Man Villain Receives Movie-Worthy Redesign

Warning: Spoilers for Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider #7

The Black Tarantula, an often overlooked villain in the Spider-Man universe, has received a remarkable transformation that could pave the way for his adaptation into live-action films. With a striking new suit design and compelling backstory, he presents a fresh challenge for Tom Holland’s increasingly seasoned Spider-Man.

In this issue, Gwen, known as Ghost Spider, finds herself captivated by Fabian LaMuerto, a charismatic young man she encounters at a coffee shop. Unbeknownst to her, he is the son of the Black Tarantula and has recently introduced a modernized costume.

Comic book panels: Spider-Gwen tries to punch Black Tarantula.

In Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider #7, crafted by Stephanie Phillips, Von Randal, Matt Milla, and Ariana Maher, Fabian embraces his Black Tarantula identity. He showcases a striking new suit and formidable powers by ruthlessly eliminating a corrupt judge in his residence, signaling a shift towards a more aggressive approach. This encounter sets the stage for an intense confrontation with Ghost Spider, emphasizing his new abilities.

The Multi-Generational Legacy of Black Tarantula

A New Challenge for Ghost Spider

Comic book panel: Spider-Gwen Faces Black Tarantula

The mantle of Black Tarantula has been handed down through generations for over seven centuries, originally established by Carlos LaMuerto. This formidable foe has crossed paths with not only Spider-Man but also Daredevil and Elektra. Each successor inherits the powers associated with the title due to a unique serum, granting them abilities such as superhuman strength, regenerative healing, and potentially enhanced longevity—though the latter remains a topic of speculation.

Fabian LaMuerto, molded by his father’s criminal legacy, was raised to ultimately assume the Black Tarantula title. Carlos LaMuerto, a notorious crime lord with influence extending through South America and into Europe, faced personal turmoil when his wife, Marina Caches, left him due to his illegal activities, taking their son with her. After failed attempts to retrieve Fabian through hired guns, Carlos decided to reconnect with his son personally. Together, they now command a legion of followers dressed as Black Tarantula as they confront Ghost Spider in a battle for supremacy.

Fabian LaMuerto Steps into His Role with Style

Cover Art by Mark Brooks

Comic book cover: Spider-Gwen and Black Tarantula are framed by a heart.

Having trained under his father since infancy, Fabian ultimately claims the Black Tarantula title in a pivotal narrative moment. Carlos views his son’s ascension as a realization of his ambitions, even as Fabian’s mother sought to shield him from this destiny. As observed in the preceding issue, her attempts to keep him away from his father’s influence ultimately prove futile as he accepts the serum and embodies his family’s legacy.

Now, clad in an impressive new suit, Fabian confronts Ghost Spider, expressing his intentions to create an alternative system of justice—one he believes will yield lasting results. This sentiment echoes the complexities of morality, as he argues against the futility of traditional justice methods.

Black Tarantula: A Compelling Foil for Spider-Man in the MCU

Reinvigorating the Villain Archetype

Comic book panels: Spider-Gwen Chases Black Tarantula

Spider-Man’s moral compass has always been definitive; he adheres strictly to a personal code. However, an encounter with Fabian, who operates outside the established system while claiming to promote noble causes, could profoundly challenge Spider-Man’s principles. Having been tested emotionally in previous confrontations, Spider-Man might find himself grappling with conflicting ideologies in the presence of such an unconventional antagonist.

At this pivotal juncture in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Spider-Man must define his identity independently from Avengers-level threats. As a lesser-known character from the comics, Black Tarantula and the emerging figure of Fabian LaMuerto could inject fresh narrative energy into Spider-Man’s storyline. Furthermore, Black Tarantula could seamlessly interact with other characters like Daredevil, enhancing the wider MCU landscape.

Visually, Fabian’s sleek black leather suit adorned with silver spider motifs and a ghostly cape creates a stunning presence on the comic pages. The dramatic contrast between Spider-Man’s vibrant red-and-blue costume and Black Tarantula’s shadowy ensemble would serve as a powerful representation of their opposing methodologies.

Spider-Gwen: The Ghost-Spider #7 is now available from Marvel Comics.

Source & Images