Spider-Man 4 scrapped, a franchise reboot beckons

Following reports of delays and release reshuffles on the production of Spider-Man 4, Columbia Pictures has taken a bold step and pulled the plug altogether on this mooted sequel. As reported by Variety, both director and star Sam Raimi and Tobey Maguire have left the production, and Columbia is looking to move the franchise in a totally new direction

So instead of leaving the property in development hell, the studio is already preparing a total franchise reboot ready for release sometime in 2012. A script written by James Vanderbilt is reportedly ready to shoot, which focuses on Peter Parker’s exploits as a teen. Not only will this be a cheaper and more cost effective way to re-launch the franchise, but it also gives us a chance to focus on how Spidey gets to grips with his newly gained powers at a younger age.

Speaking about these developments, Raimi remained positive that Marvel’s swinging son was in good hands. “While we were looking forward to doing a fourth one together, the studio and Marvel have a unique opportunity to take the franchise in a new direction, and I know they will do a terrific job.”

Direction-wise the good money is on this upcoming Spider-Man being based on Brian Michael Bendis’s Ultimate Spider-Man series. Let us know what you would like to see from a rebooted Spidey via the comments thread below.

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