Cinemas around the world have suffered hugely as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Spider-Man: No Way Home is helping them fight back.
Data from Comscore show that between 2019 and 2020, the UK box office dropped in revenue by 76%.
Even now, in the later stages of the pandemic, the fluctuations in government guidance and consumers turning to streaming services for content have left cinemas in dire straits.
But the popularity of Spider-Man: No Way Home has given cinemas reason to celebrate.
Ever since actor Tom Holland donned the Spider-Man suit back in 2017 his portrayal of the character has garnered widespread acclaim, but this film in particular has been an overwhelming critical and commercial success, grossing over $1.6 billion worldwide.
It almost single-handedly propped up the global box office when it was released on 15 December.
In a sign of its success, Sony, the company that distributes the film, has now launched a surprise bid for The Oscars, including in the Best Picture category.
SWL spoke to experts about the history of blockbuster and comic book films at awards ceremonies, and why a nomination for Spider-Man: No Way Home could provide a much-needed boost to The Oscars themselves.
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