Credit: Marvel StudiosMajor trends are on the horizon for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its competition, particularly regarding Spider-Man 4, which stars Tom Holland.
Since its inception, the role of Spider-Man in live-action films has been portrayed by three different actors, each bringing their own unique interpretation of the beloved superhero. Tobey Maguire first donned the iconic red and blue suit in Spider-Man (2002), captivating audiences with his earnest portrayal of Peter Parker’s journey from awkward teenager to formidable hero. Maguire’s portrayal set the stage for a successful trilogy, with Spider-Man 2 (2004) and Spider-Man 3 (2007) further cementing his place in cinematic history.
Following Maguire’s tenure, Andrew Garfield swung into action in The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), offering a fresh perspective on the character’s origins and struggles. Garfield’s portrayal added depth and emotional complexity to Peter Parker’s story, exploring themes of identity, loss, and redemption. Despite mixed reception to the films, Garfield’s commitment to the role and chemistry with co-star Emma Stone garnered praise from fans.
The Spider-Man franchise has significant updates
In 2015, the franchise underwent yet another transformation with Tom Holland’s introduction as the web-slinger in Captain America: Civil War (2016), followed by Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017). Holland’s portrayal brought a youthful energy and humor to the character, capturing the essence of Peter Parker as a high school student grappling with the responsibilities of being a superhero. His portrayal was met with widespread acclaim, and subsequent appearances in Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) and Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) further solidified his status as a fan favorite.
Now, with the triumphant return of Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield alongside Tom Holland in Spider-Man: No Way Home, fans are left eagerly speculating about the future of the franchise. As the curtain falls on one chapter, anticipation mounts for what lies ahead. With Holland’s portrayal receiving widespread acclaim and the franchise’s penchant for reinvention, the possibilities for a fourth installment are endless.
For nearly three years, fans have awaited confirmation that a fourth installment would be happening. Though Tom Holland had expressed willingness to return as Peter Parker for another film, there were still a multitude of details to work out. At CinemaCon this past week, Disney announced that the film would, in fact, be developed.
SPIDER-MAN 4 HAS JUST BEEN ANNOUNCED AT CINEMACON OMG! #CinemaCon pic.twitter.com/7euBFDlYab
— Zero (@zerowontmiss) April 11, 2024
Just recently, reports from World of Reel came forward that Sam Raimi was in contention to direct the fourth installment of the MCU franchise as Jon Watts is reportedly not returning. With Sam Raimi potentially returning, it has raised speculation that we might once again see Tobey Maguire return, as well. The film is reportedly set to begin production later this year.
In addition, reports have confirmed that Zendaya (MJ) is set to reprise her role, but another female lead may also make her way into the film: Sydney Sweeney. According to Forbes, Sweeney, who just finished a failed run with Madame Web (2024), is rumored to play a “non-MJ love interest” to Tom Holland’s character. Fans have speculated that she could play Felicia Hardy, AKA Black Cat. Another rumor claims she could be cast in the role of Gwen Stacy.
James Gunn joins Tom Holland and Spider-Man 4 in trends
With multiple rumors coming forward about Spider-Man 4, it should come as no surprise that comments from fans on social media are coming in droves.
In just a matter of hours, both “Tom Holland” and “Spider-Man 4” garnered thousands of responses on X (formerly Twitter).
MOM DAD SAM RAIMI’S DIRECTING SPIDER-MAN 4 https://t.co/mpd6xCl3mi pic.twitter.com/dAvbcGtFha
— owen wilson was her (@starberry_jam_) April 17, 2024
In multiple tweets, fans expressed a hopefulness that Sam Raimi would get the role, particularly noting Spider-Man 2 (2004) and the reception the film received. Interestingly enough, another name rose to the surface when Spider-Man 4 and Tom Holland were getting all of the attention: James Gunn.
Gunn, who has seemingly left the Marvel Cinematic Universe behind for an executive position with DC and Warner Bros., trended on X, as well, garnering thousands of tweets in the same amount of time. One of the big reasons? His Superman logo was revealed at CinemaCon.
Zack Snyder’s #ManOfSteel logo against James Gunn’s #Superman logo. pic.twitter.com/e4EXUkdg2Q
— Pop Screen🍿 (@popscreen) April 10, 2024
Now, days later, Gunn has continued to capitalize on the various reactions to his upcoming project by posting a behind-the-scenes photo of the DCU’s new Superman. In his post, he shared:
“On this day in 1938 the first superhero entered our atmosphere via the imaginations of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. He gave us someone to believe in, not because of his great physical power, but because of his character and determination to do right no matter what. Happy #Superman Day to all of you! #UpUpandAway”
On this day in 1938 the first superhero entered our atmosphere via the imaginations of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. He gave us someone to believe in, not because of his great physical power, but because of his character and determination to do right no matter what. Happy… pic.twitter.com/fDlevaxcZj
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) April 18, 2024
At this time, no other information has been given on the upcoming Spider-Man or Superman projects.
What do you think about the major news and rumors surrounding both Marvel and DC? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!
