The Spider-Man Reboot Will Be in 3D

Published by Jeff Leins on February 10, 2010

Sony Pictures has confirmed the untitled Spider-Man reboot will be in 3D and has set a release date of July 3, 2012.

(500) Days of Summer director Marc Webb is helming the fourth movie based on the Marvel webslinger that will re-tell the comic book character’s origin story.  The roles will all be recast with younger talent, though no actor has been announced as the new Spidey yet.

The press release does not indicate whether the fresh start will be shot using 3D stereoscopic technology or if the film will be instead converted in post-production.  It’s a crucial distinction between the look and feel of Avatar versus the pop-up effects of something like My Bloody Valentine 3D.  Given Webb’s inexperience (it’s only his second feature), I’m afraid they won’t shoot in 3D.

Either way, a three-dimensional spectacle contradicts the character-driven angle the studio seems to be pushing for.  James Vanderbilt’s script is said to focus on Peter Parker dealing with “modern issues” in a “contemporary” high school setting.

The solidified release date puts Spider-Man in direct competition with Paramount’s Star Trek 2 scheduled for June 29.  Given fan reactions so far to a rebooted Spider-Man, I’d say the Trekkies have the edge for now.

“Spider-Man is the ultimate summer movie-going experience, and we’re thrilled the filmmakers are presenting the next installment in 3D,” said Chairman of Sony Pictures Worldwide Marketing & Distribution Jeff Blake in the statement. “Spider-Man is one of the most popular characters in the world, and we know audiences are eager and excited to discover Marc’s fantastic vision for Peter Parker and the franchise.”