Marvel Studios is giving Spider-Man a fresh start within the continuity of the incredibly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe, and that means it won't be long until a new actor is announced in the iconic role. While we have our guesses, at this point we don't know much about what direction both Marvel and Sony are looking in for the reboot, and who might be the names they are considering, but one thing does seem certain: they're looking to go young.
This new story has emerged from a piece in The Hollywood Reporter, which has word from inside sources that Marvel Studios is looking to have the Marvel Studios version of Spider-Man be "much younger" that the previous incarnation played by Andrew Garfield. The British Amazing Spider-Man star was 28 years old when he played Spider-Man for the first time and was 30-years-old in the sequel, and it seems that Marvel is looking for someone who can more appropriately play a teenage version of the webslinger.
In the wake of the deal between Marvel Studios and Sony, this is probably the best news that has emerged. While I actually very much enjoyed Andrew Garfield's performance in the Amazing Spider-Man movies, there is a great opportunity in going young with recasting that the two companies seem to be taking advantage of. One of the hallmarks of the Spider-Man character has long been the fact that he is the quintessential teenage superhero, dealing with things like homework and college applications while also taking to the streets and crime fighting at night. With adult heroes like Iron Man (played by a 49 year old actor), Thor (31 years old), Captain America (33 years old), and Hulk (47 years old) already populating the Marvel Cinematic Universe and serving as a contrast, there exists a chance to make Spider-Man's youth really mean something in comparison. It's worked in Marvel Comics for decades, and could be fantastic on the big screen.
Of course, the big problem that comes about when casting young actors is that the number of well-established candidates in Hollywood isn't exactly numerous. Kodi Smith-McPhee (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes), Asa Butterfield (Ender's Game) and Nick Robinson (The Kings of Summer) are still under 20 and could be interesting choices for the part. If Marvel and Sony are willing to try and get an older actor with a young face, they also might consider Freddie Highmore (Bates Motel), Craig Roberts (Submarine), Cameron Monaghan (The Giver), and Dylan O'Brien (The Maze Runner).
What qualities do you think Marvel and Sony should be looking for in the upcoming sequel, and who do you think should get the part? Tell us what you're thinking in the comments section below!
