More Spider-Man movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe are still a possibility as an update on this developing story reveals Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios could reach a new deal. In 2015, Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios struck their original deal that allowed Spider-Man to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Tom Holland making his debut in 2016's Captain America: Civil War. Although there's been confusion about what the Sony and Marvel deal entails - like whether Venom was in the MCU or could ever join the MCU - the partnership has led to great success for both studios. Marvel strengthened their MCU brand with one of their most iconic comic book superheroes, and Sony reinvigorated Spider-Man on the big screen.

A new report indicated Sony and Marvel Studios are parting ways in regards to the Spider-Man collaboration due to a payment dispute. In the past, Sony financed the solo Spider-Man movies (Spider-Man: Homecoming and this year's Spider-Man: Far From Home), and reaped much of the financial benefits from those films' successful box office runs. Meanwhile, Marvel Studios had creative control of Spider-Man so he could fit within their established MCU. According to today's initial report, Marvel's parent company, Disney, wanted to take on more financial responsibility, thereby making more of a profit off the films they were helping to create. Discussions broke down, leading to the reports of Sony and Marvel parting ways on future Spider-Man movies. However, an update indicates a new deal can be reached.

Related: Sony's Three Spider-Man Movie Universes Explained

Now, Variety reports one of their sources said a deal can still be made between Sony and Disney/Marvel Studios. When Sony was reached for comment by io9, a representative said the dispute between studios is over a producer credit and negotiations are still ongoing. The Sony representative also clarified that Feige has contributed to other Sony Marvel movies, which he did not receive a producer credit on.

Spider-Man Far From Home Tom Holland

At this point, it's unclear what will become of Spider-Man in the MCU, but after today's reports, a future in which Sony's Spidey franchise continues without the help of Marvel Studios seems more possible than it did previously. What exactly that looks like is unknown, and could be confusing for viewers. Many average moviegoers - particularly children - don't understand the behind-the-scenes politics and business side of franchises like the MCU. If the Spider-Man franchise and MCU split from each other, it'll lead to a lot of questions that the movies may not be able to answer.

However, if Sony and Marvel/Disney are able to come to a new agreement, fans won't have to worry about the ramifications of Marvel Studios and Feige no longer being involved in Spider-Man projects. Of course, Sony has made plenty of strides since The Amazing Spider-Man 2 seemed to stop the studio's Marvel franchise in its tracks. Last year alone, Sony released the box office hit Venom and the Academy Award-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. So, Sony could likely continue to make its main Spider-Man series a success. But, even if that were the case, many fans would likely choose to have Spider-Man remain in the MCU. So, hopefully Sony and Marvel can strike a deal to make keep Spider-Man in the MCU.

Next:  Why Kraven The Hunter Is Best Choice For Spider-Man 3's Villain

Source: Variety, io9