Planet Money The Spider-Man Problem (update)
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Jun 7, 2023 
Joanna Robinson, a Senior writer and podcaster at The Ringer, dives into the intricate saga behind Spider-Man's film rights. She discusses the fascinating history of Marvel's licensing deal with Sony and its consequences. The conversation touches on the behind-the-scenes drama that rivals the films themselves, including the impact of Sony's reboot struggles and the spectacular success of 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.' Robinson also highlights how the multiverse storytelling has revitalized the franchise and reshaped superhero cinema.
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Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man Casting
- Tobey Maguire wasn't a superstar in 2002 when he was cast as Spider-Man.
- Yet, the film's success proved that the character's popularity could outweigh an actor's fame.
The Rise of IP Over Stars
- Spider-Man's box office success highlighted a shift in Hollywood.
- Intellectual property (IP), like the character itself, became more important than star power.
Sony's Spider-Man Reboot Cycle
- Sony Pictures had to keep making Spider-Man movies to retain the film rights.
- This explains the frequent reboots, including Andrew Garfield's portrayal, despite fan confusion.
