After two blockbuster prequels, Sony pictures is set to complete the trilogy of Spiderman movies on May 4, 2007, with the release of Spiderman 3. According to star Toby Maguire, Spiderman 3 will likely be the final chapter for him in the ultra-popular superhero series. In a recent interview, he said it “feels like the end”, and added that many of the main storylines will be wrapped up in this movie. However, Sony is reportedly hoping to move forward with a fourth installment.

So what can we expect to see in Spiderman 3? If the previews are any indication, more of the same breathtaking CGI action that graced the first two films is on the way. There also will be not one, but three villains this time around. The main villain this time appears to be a guy who morphs into a giant, angry sand figure: “Sandman”. In addition, viewers of the last movie will remember that Peter Parker’s longtime friend Harry was beginning to turn against him after his father’s death; as hinted at in the end of Spiderman 2, Harry will become the new “Goblin” and seek to destroy Spiderman once and for all. The third villain is “Venom”, and the only real information on him is that he is some sort of host for an alien parasite. He certainly looks like the scariest of the three.

As always, Spiderman will be struggling with his own identity. This time, some sort of evil black suit possesses him, enhancing his powers and his ego. The source of the suit is not clear, but it is apparent that Spidey will be fighting inner battles greater than any he has fought before.

This movie will introduce another new character and a familiar face to the series. Topher Grace (That 70s Show) plays Eddie Brock, a rival photographer who competes with Peter for the position at the newspaper. Those familiar with the Spiderman comics will be well aware of who Eddie Brock turns out to be.

Other plotlines will revolve around Peter’s ongoing relationship with Mary Jane and his quest to find out the truth about his uncle’s killer. All in all, Spiderman 3 looks to be a bit darker than its predecessors, as well as having a complex and multi-layered storyline. Every indication is that fans of the previous Spiderman movies will continue to be pleased, and Sony will have another massive hit on its hands.