Spider-Man Returns To Marvel Studios: it’s for real this time.
After weeks of conjecture, the news is now official: the next Spider-Man film will be jointly produced by both Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios.
Spider-Man, the linchpin of the Marvel Comic Book universe, has been in cinematic dire straights at the hands of Sony after the disastrous critical and commercial failure of The Amazing Spider-Man Part 2. That caused much speculation (and hope) amongst fans that the character could join the rest of the Marvel cinematic universe, given Marvel’s proven track record.
A new standalone Spider-Man film will hit theaters in 2017. It is widely speculated that Andrew Garfield will be let go from his contract in favor of a new actor.
The film will be produced by Marvel’s head honcho Kevin Feige and Sony chairman Amy Pascal.
Disney (owner of Marvel) is rejiggering its slate of upcoming films to help work the character into the continuity of their established franchises such as The Avengers and the upcoming Civil War storyline
“Thor: Ragnorak,” will move from July 28, 2017 to Nov. 3, 2017. “Black Panther,” move from Nov. 3, 2017 to July 6, 2017.
Click here for my list of most underrated comic book characters
Feige said of the announcement via Marvel’s official website: “I am thrilled to team with my friends at Sony Pictures along with Amy Pascal to produce the next Spider-Man movie…Amy has been deeply involved in the realization on film of one of the world’s most beloved characters. Marvel’s involvement will hopefully deliver the creative continuity and authenticity that fans demand from the MCU. I am equally excited for the opportunity to have Spider-Man appear in the MCU, something which both we at Marvel, and fans alike, have been looking forward to for years.”
There is one stipulation that might make things rocky: Sony will still finance and have final creative control of the Spider-Man films. But given they want what’s best for their investment, best to let Marvel lead the way.
So that’s all the technical stuff…but as a comic fan? This is pretty exciting. Let’s face it, there hasn’t been a great Spider-Man film since Sam Raimi’s second Spider-entry (don’t get me started on part 3!)
Click here for my list of worst movie sequels.
Maybe one day Fox will also join hands with their X-Men and Fantastic Four franchises if this venture fares well.
Meanwhile I’m still pacing the floor for a look at Batman v Superman. But this has been a good day for comic book geeks. Excelsior.
Are you excited by this announcement? Let me know in the comment section.
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