Electricians in Popular Culture, Part 6: Spider-man's Uncle Ben

July 1, 2002
It's not one of his bigger screen roles, but veteran Academy Award-winning actor Cliff Robertson turns in a fine performance as an aging plant electrician in the movie Robertson plays Peter Parker's (Spider-Man's) Uncle Ben, who is fired from his chief-electrician job after 35 years. (The movie never explains why the 68-year-old electrician is not given early or regular retirement though these days

It's not one of his bigger screen roles, but veteran Academy Award-winning actor Cliff Robertson turns in a fine performance as an aging plant electrician in the movie “Spider-Man.” Robertson plays Peter Parker's (Spider-Man's) Uncle Ben, who is fired from his chief-electrician job after 35 years. (The movie never explains why the 68-year-old electrician is not given early or regular retirement — though these days it could be a pension/401K thing.) Uncle Ben scans classifieds every day, lamenting that companies want new computer tricks from an “old-dog” electrician. “They're downsizing the workers and upsizing profits,” he says.

We won't give away the entire plot, but we will say that after a genetically altered spider's bite turns mild-mannered Parker into Spider-Man, the super-hero first uses his powers to make money. But after a family tragedy, he vows to dedicate his life to fighting crime, taking to heart advice from his beloved Uncle Ben: “With great power comes great responsibility.”

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Don't Let Burn-Through Threaten Another Data Center or Utility Project

Get the No Burn-Through Elbow eGuide to learn many reasons why Champion Fiberglass elbows will enhance your data center and utility projects today.

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.