Since its release, Spider-Man: Brand New Day has resonated exceptionally well with audiences, raking in over $2 billion in worldwide box office receipts. However, the craving for additional Spider-Man content remains strong among fans. The recent launch of The Art of Spider-Man: Brand New Day seemed to promise just that. Yet, as enthusiasts flipped through its pages, many began to notice an unsettling trend.
Upon closer examination, readers spotted artwork that appeared to be generated by artificial intelligence. As discussions around AI continue to polarize the creative community, disappointment spread among fans who felt let down by this revelation. It seems to mark another chapter in the ongoing integration of AI into creative expressions.
One user expressed their discontent on X, stating, "Selling an 'art book' that has AI visuals in it should genuinely be illegal." Another chimed in, sharing their mixed feelings: "Can’t say I’m surprised that GenAI is in the Spider-Man art book, but I’m still disappointed and hurt all the same."
The specific artwork sparking this reaction is titled "Big City, Little Spider," created by concept artist Scott McInnes. At first, it appears harmless, but further scrutiny reveals oddities—taxis merging together, fire escapes that don’t function properly, warped traffic lights, and windows positioned in bizarre locations—all elements that hint at AI involvement.
In a landscape where large superhero franchises like Supergirl have also admitted to utilizing AI, Spider-Man isn’t alone in adopting this contentious technology. The industry is facing increasing instances of AI-generated content, from The Brutalist's AI art debacle to the controversy surrounding an AI-crafted poster for the Fantastic Four. It seems the use of AI is becoming more prevalent in filmmaking and advertising, even in the face of audience disapproval.
While I recognize that AI can have beneficial applications, the ongoing identification of subpar AI-generated content raises questions about its true value in creative fields like film. Should the industry embrace AI technology, or are there risks that outweigh the rewards? Share your thoughts in the comments below.



