Here's what Spider-Man potentially leaving the MCU means
Everyone relax, Tom Holland will still play Spider-Man.
As has been reported, Sony and Marvel are apparently at an impasse in contract negotiations over financing over the next two Spider-Man films. Per Deadline, this standoff has the potential to remove the Spider-Man character, as recently played by Tom Holland, from the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe. There’s still a chance that all parties involved could reach a deal, but the prospect of an MCU-less Spider-Man has thrown fans into a tizzy, with people actually threatening to boycott Sony.
While there’s reason to be skeptical of what happens to the franchise if it divorces from Marvel, there are a few key things to keep in mind as this story continues to evolve and change.
Does this mean that there won’t be any new Spider-Man movies?
No, even though Marvel Studios will not be involved, Sony is still committed to making two more Spider-Man films. Their last franchise offering, Far From Home, passed the $1 billion mark in box office earnings, making it the highest grossing film ever for Sony.
Will Tom Holland still play Spider-Man?
Yes, thankfully. Holland is still under contract with Sony for two more Spider-Man films. Jon Watts, who directed Homecoming and Far From Home is also set to return.
Oh, well maybe this won’t be such a big deal?
It could work out fine, but there’s a real sense of loss that comes with divorcing Peter Parker from the larger MCU. Marvel, and more specifically Kevin Feige, is credited with revitalizing the character after The Amazing Spider-Man 2, starring Andrew Garfield, bombed.
Plus, Tom Holland’s Spider-Man has been interwoven with the MCU ever since his introduction in Captain America: Civil War. Plus, his connection with Tony Stark has been an emotional through line for franchise. It would be incredibly messy to pretend that the rest of the Avengers suddenly just don’t exist.
Is there any reason to be hopeful about the franchise?
Yes, actually. Sony did release the fantastic Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse earlier this year, so they do have some idea of how to treat the character with the love and respect he deserves. Whether that makes up for everything Marvel brings to the table remains to be soon.
Wait, so is there a chance we get Spidey and Venom?
Sony does hold the rights to the Venom character, and considering how much people love their cinematic universes, they could potentially team up.
Everyone is freaking out, but is there a chance Spider-Man stays with the MCU?
There’s always a chance, though reports that came out Tuesday afternoon seemed pretty firm. Trade publication Variety reports a source as saying “that a deal might still be reached between Disney and Sony.”