As you have definitely already heard, Sony and Marvel/Disney have decided to go their separate ways in regards to Spider-Man. After failing to come to terms, Spider-Man has been banished from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, cursed to live on solely in films from Sony alone. The marriage between Marvel and Sony, which brought both parties billions of dollars, is no more.
And now comes the aftermath. Just today we have heard several interesting bit of information that suggest this break up is official but — possibly — temporary.
Sony released a statement today, heavily suggesting that they’re not to blame for Spider-Man’s exit from the MCU. They place the blame at Disney’s feet, claiming the studio doesn’t want Marvel head honcho Kevin Feige to be working with Sony anymore. He’s a busy man, especially with all the new Marvel movies on the horizon, so it would make sense that Disney would want him to work ONLY for them. But at what cost?
Here’s Sony’s take, which sounds downright depressing.
“Much of today’s news about Spider-Man has mischaracterized recent discussions about Kevin Feige’s involvement in the franchise. We are disappointed, but respect Disney’s decision not to have him continue as a lead producer of our next live action Spider-Man film. We hope this might change in the future, but understand that the many new responsibilities that Disney has given him – including all their newly added Marvel properties – do not allow time for him to work on IP they do not own. Kevin is terrific and we are grateful for his help and guidance and appreciate the path he has helped put us on, which we will continue.”
If there is anything to be excited about in that statement, it’s the fact that Sony says they hope Disney’s decision might change in the future. That’s leaving the door open for Feige to return, or at least for the working relationship between the two studios to be repaired. If one side is willing to work with the other then there is hope that this might all be resolved and Peter Parker may be web-slinging alongside his Marvel buddies again.
The other big news today is that Jon Watts, director of Spider-Man: Homecoming and Far From Home actually isn’t signed on to direct two more Spidey films, despite conflicting reports. This news come via Deadline, who claim that Sony could move onto another director for the promised third Spider-Man film. That would be an unlikely move by Sony because Watts has been nothing but great to them but who knows? Things are very fluid and chaotic in the Spider-Man world right now and nothing is promised, except that Tom Holland will definitely return for at least one more film.
We aren’t really sure where things stand here. Obviously there is a lot going on. But I wouldn’t say that this split is a done deal, at least not yet. You have to remember just how much money these movies have made for both parties. Money talks in Hollywood and there is much to be made still. They worked out a deal once before at the start of their relationship and look how wonderfully that turned out for both Sony and Disney. There is a chance it’ll work out again.
Spider-Man fans should rejoice that Sony seems open to continuing this partnership. But, as always, Disney holds the upper hand and they are quite demanding when it comes to negotiations. If they lose Spider-Man they would still be fine with the rest of the MCU. Those movies were massive blockbusters without Spidey and would continue to be. Sony, on the other hand, really benefited more from this partnership because, let’s be honest, their Spider-Man films weren’t doing so hot before Marvel slid into the picture. The truth is that Sony needs Disney more than Disney needs Sony. And Disney knows this, so they’re going to play hardball. But playing hardball might be worth it to Sony.
I wouldn’t give up hope entirely. Money makes strange bedfellows of us all. Especially lots of money. Lots and lots and lots of money.