UPDATE: Spider-Man 4 (May 5th 2011)

Sam Raimi is back and has intentions to improve upon Spider-Man 3, which didn't end up being a fan favorite. Raimi has stated he's learned from the mistakes of the last film. Not too much information is known about the fourth installment. There are chances the film could start elements in the story that will lead to the 5th and 6th film. The original script was written by James Vanderbilt (Basic, Zodiac), with rewrites from Gary Ross (Pleasantville, Big) and David Lindsay-Abaire (Robots). Vanderbilt will also write scripts for Spider-Man 5 and Spider-Man 6.


The returning cast includes Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Dylan Baker and J.K. Simmons. It's unknown if Elizabeth Banks and Rosemary Harris will return. Bruce Campbell will also return in a larger role than the previous three films. It's unlikely Bryce Dallas Howard will reprise her role as Gwen Stacy.

RUMORS



Mania reported that Rachel McAdams (Sherlock Holmes) has met with the producers to play the role of Black Cat. Known as Felicia Hardy she is the daughter of a well known cat burglar. She becomes one herself and also becomes somewhat of a love interest to Spider-Man.


British actress Romola Garai (Atonement) has revealed testing for a new female role in Spider-Man 4. While she doesn't mention what role it was for, it's very likely she tested for Felicia Hardy/Black Cat. I believe she also might have tested for Debra Whitman another love interest of Peter Parker. Debra has connections with Dr. Curt Connors, Felicia, Micheal Morbius and Empire State University.


One of the more unsurprising aspects of the fourth film is that Lizard could be the film's villain. If not, then Dr. Curt Connors could start the wheels in motion for the Lizard's appearance in Spider-Man 5.


With Bruce Campbell's confirmed role it's still thought he'll play the villain Mysterio.


There was talk a while back about Mickey Rourke playing a villain in both Iron Man 2 and Spider-Man 4. It was assumed that Rourke would play Kraven The Hunter but I feel that the Rhino would also be a good fit for him.


Ben Kingsley is the actor Sam Raimi has in mind if they use The Vulture. Raimi mentioned this during the DVD commentary of Spider-Man 3.


I'm sure we'll be seeing another cameo from Stan Lee, he's hoping for bigger role this time around. I think we could also see a cameo from patriot and bear hater Stephen Colbert.