It could have been redeeming.

It could have been epic.

Itcould have capped off an iconic trilogy in an unexpected, challenging way.

Spider-Man 2002 Poster

It could have been Sam Raimi’sSpider-Man 4.

Why Didn’t Sam Raimi Like ‘Spider-Man 3’?

But Venom had a large fan base, a substantial number of which were younger.

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Ultimately, the character was cast with a name that would have been simplyawesome as Vulture:John Malkovich.

The second option was even better.

Peter shows up atAunt May’s (Rosemary Harris)for dinner.

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Meanwhile, Peter is enjoying life as Spider-Man, at ease with himself for the first time in ages.

Issues began with Sony holding fast to a 2011 release date.

Some elements ofSpider-Man 4were picked up by theSpider-Manfilms that followed.

Blended image showing Miles Morales, Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man, and Peter B. Parker

Spider-Man atop a structure in Spider-Man: Far From Home

Spider-Man: Brand New Day