In a "never seen before deal," Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures have formed a coalition that will see Spider-Man entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is expected that the web slinger will be making his first appearance as part of the Marvel universe in "Captain America: Civil War," alongside Steve Rogers and Falcon.
In a press release posted in Marvel's website, Bob Iger, the Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company said:
"Spider-Man is one of Marvel's great characters, beloved around the world. We're thrilled to work with Sony Pictures to bring the iconic web-slinger into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which opens up fantastic new opportunities for storytelling and franchise building."
Prior to the deal, the next "Spider-Man" movie was scheduled to be released in 2018, with a series of other spinoffs to be shown before the character's official sequel hits theatres. But after the deal between Marvel and Sony, it looks as if those intentions will be buried six feet under.
Similarly, President of Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige, said:
"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."
Since the character will likely be given a new storyline, it is possible that Andrew Garfield, the actor who took the lead role of Peter Parker in the last two "The Amazing Spider-Man" films, will not be appearing in this one.
"Spider-Man" films have garnered in sufficient Box Office revenue, including a very popular character being followed byt people of all ages. The successful franchise, which comprises of five released films, have accumulated a total of US$4 billion worldwide.
The next "Spider-Man" film is expected to be released on July 28, 2017.
