KUALA LUMPUR — Spider-Man took over Raintree Plaza at The Exchange TRX last night as thousands of fans gathered for the opening of the Spider-Man: Brand New Day light show.

Organised by Sony Pictures Malaysia, Raintree Plaza was transformed into New York City’s iconic 42nd Street, paying tribute to the neighbourhood where Peter Parker lives and protects New York.

Fans were treated to attractions inspired by the films, including the famous Daily Bugle newsstand, where visitors could take home complimentary printed newspapers, and Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, the bakery where Michelle “MJ” Jones, played by Zendaya, worked part-time in the Spider-Man films.

Free doughnuts were also handed out to visitors.

Crowds began gathering as early as 5pm, with members of the media, social media influencers, guests and VIPs eagerly awaiting Spider-Man’s dramatic appearance across the skyline.

The event celebrated the upcoming release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which opens in Malaysian cinemas on July 30.

Fans are eager to see Tom Holland return as Peter Parker in the next chapter of the web-slinger’s journey.

Cinema supervisor Zaid Nazren, 26, was among those in attendance and told Malay Mail he was “amazingly hyped”.

“In my opinion, Tobey Maguire is the best Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield is the best Peter Parker, but Tom Holland is the best combination of both,” he said.

Movie reviewer Rahimi Raimi said he hopes to see a darker side of Spider-Man in the new film and witness the character’s continued growth from previous instalments.

The event also attracted scores of fans dressed as different versions of Spider-Man.

Some arrived dressed as Venom, Spider-Punk and Miles Morales, turning the plaza into a celebration of Marvel’s Spider-Verse.

One cosplayer, who wore a classic Spider-Man suit and wished to be identified only as Hic Et Nunc, said he hopes to see surprise appearances in the upcoming film from well-known Marvel characters such as Jean Grey, Elektra and Daredevil.