Marc Webb Confirmed as Spider-Man Reboot Director
Posted 01.20.10 by Ryan
After a week of rumors and speculations, Marvel Entertainment and Columbia Pictures have confirmed that (500) Days of Summer director Marc Webb will indeed helm the Spider-Man reboot. A statement from the studios described the factors involved in choosing a new director.
The key for us as we sought a new director was to identify filmmakers who could give sharp focus to Peter Parker's life. We wanted someone who could capture the awe of being in Peter's shoes so the audience could experience his sense of discovery while giving real heart to the emotion, anxiety, and recklessness of that age and coupling all of that with the adrenaline of Spider-Man's adventure. We believe Marc Webb is the perfect choice to bring us on that journey.
Previously forced to decline confirmation of this appointment, Webb was clearly excited to finally speak about the job.
This is a dream come true and I couldn't be more aware of the challenge, responsibility, or opportunity. Sam Raimi's virtuoso rendering of Spider-Man is a humbling precedent to follow and build upon. The first three films are beloved for good reason. But I think the Spider-Man mythology transcends not only generations but directors as well. I am signing on not to "take over" from Sam. That would be impossible. Not to mention arrogant. I'm here because there's an opportunity for ideas, stories, and histories that will add a new dimension, canvas, and creative voice to Spider-Man.
The hiring also had the approval of Spider-Man's creator, Stan Lee.
I'm excited that Sony has chosen a director with a real penchant and understanding for the character. This is a brave, bold direction for the franchise, and I can't wait to see what Marc comes up with next.
Sony hopes to go into production on the movie by the end of the year. James Vanderbilt wrote the script, which will place Peter Parker back in high school for a retelling of the character's origins.