Why Tom Holland’s Non-Marvel Films Struggle to Redefine Him
Tom Holland’s attempts to break free from his Spider-Man persona have faced major setbacks. Despite his box office power, his non-MCU projects have struggled to connect with audiences. What’s holding him back from a new Hollywood identity?
Tom Holland ’s rise to stardom is inseparable from his role as Spider- Man, a character that has defined his public image since his debut in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War. While his Marvel films have raked in billions and made him a household name, his efforts to branch out have met with mixed results. Like Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth before him, Holland finds himself caught in the web of franchise typecasting, with his non-superhero projects struggling to leave a mark.
Box Office Success and the Franchise Trap
Holland’s solo outings as Spider-Man have been nothing short of blockbuster events. Homecoming, Far from Home, and No Way Home collectively pulled in nearly $4 billion worldwide, earning high praise from critics and fans alike. The anticipation for the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day only cements his status as a Marvel mainstay. His off-screen relationship with Zendaya, his co-star and now fiancée, has only deepened the association in the public eye.
Yet, this level of fame comes with a downside. Studios eager to cash in on Holland’s popularity have cast him in a string of high-profile projects outside the MCU, hoping his star power would guarantee success. Instead, these films have often failed to resonate, either critically or commercially, leaving Holland’s attempts at reinvention in limbo.
Animated Ventures and Box Office Misses
Holland’s voice work in animated features like Spies in Disguise and Onward showcased his versatility, but neither film managed to break through. Spies in Disguise, co-starring Will Smith, received decent reviews but struggled to draw crowds, barely covering its production costs. Onward, despite heartfelt performances from Holland and Chris Pratt, was a critical darling that flopped financially, earning far less than its sizable budget.
His collaboration with Robert Downey Jr. in Dolittle was another misfire. Despite a hefty budget and a star-studded cast, the film was panned by critics and lost millions for Universal, even as it managed a respectable box office total during the pandemic. Holland’s role as the loyal wolfhound Jip was largely overshadowed by the film’s troubled production and poor reception.
Serious Roles and Critical Hurdles
Seeking more mature material, Holland took on darker, more complex characters in films like The Devil All the Time and Cherry. His performance in The Devil All the Time drew praise for its emotional depth and Southern grit, but the film itself divided critics and failed to gain traction on Netflix. In Cherry, Holland underwent a dramatic physical transformation, working with the Russo Brothers to portray a troubled veteran. While his commitment was applauded, the movie ’s direction and writing left audiences cold.
Other projects, like Chaos Walking with Daisy Ridley, were plagued by production delays, reshoots, and narrative confusion. The film’s release during the pandemic only added to its woes, resulting in a box office disaster and a critical drubbing. Even Uncharted, a big-budget adaptation of a beloved video game, failed to offer Holland a fresh start. Though it performed well financially, critics found little to distinguish his character from his superhero persona, and the film’s creative team included many of his Marvel collaborators.
Looking Ahead: A New Direction with The Odyssey
Holland’s upcoming role in Christopher Nolan ’s The Odyssey could finally offer the breakthrough he’s been seeking. Starring alongside Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya, Holland plays Telemachus in a project he describes as “the job of a lifetime.” Filmed in Morocco and Sicily, the movie reunites Universal and Nolan after the success of Oppenheimer, raising expectations for a critical and commercial hit. Holland’s excitement about working with his heroes and the film’s ambitious scope suggest he’s ready to step out of Spider-Man’s shadow at last.
The Odyssey is set to premiere in theaters on July 17, 2026, with Spider-Man: Brand New Day following on July 31, 2026.
Previously, we explored how Holland’s career extends far beyond his Marvel days. In our earlier feature, we highlighted his most gripping performances in both film and television, focusing on the intense drama and emotional range he brings to each role. For a closer look at the projects that truly showcase his talent, check out our coverage of Tom Holland’s career beyond Spider-Man.