Webb directs Web-Slinger

One week after director Sam Raimi and Sony parted ways, Sony confirmed that Marc Webb will direct the re-boot of the Spider-Man franchise.

“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” said Marc Webb after the decision was announced. “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.”

Sony chairman Amy Pascal championed Webb for the job, stating that they needed a new director who “could give sharp focus to Peter Parker’s life.  Webb is the perfect choice to bring us on that journey.”

Webb will be working with a smaller budget than Raimi ($80 million).  His first feature film, 500 Days of Summer, is an independent film made with a modest budget and has garnered both commercial and critical success. Given that Bryan Singer, Chris Nolan and even Sam Raimi were known as independent directors before they took the reigns of what became successful film comic book franchises, it’ll be interesting to see what Webb can do with Spider-Man. And with a last name like Webb, he might be the perfect guy for the job.