The Amazing Spider-Man 3, the much-anticipated sequel to Sony’s popular Spider-Man franchise, never saw the light of day. Fans are still clamoring for its release, and while the prospect of a third installment remains a tantalizing “what if,” there are numerous reasons why it would have been beneficial for the film to be made back in 2016.

1. Unfulfilled Potential and Story Arcs

The Amazing Spider-Man series, starring Andrew Garfield as the titular hero, had carved out a distinct niche with its darker, more emotionally driven storytelling. The second film, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, left several story arcs unresolved. Key plotlines, including the continuation of Peter Parker’s relationship with Gwen Stacy (played by Emma Stone) and the development of his rivalry with the sinister Electro, were primed for a dramatic payoff. The emotional weight of these unresolved arcs would have provided a compelling foundation for The Amazing Spider-Man 3. Fans were eager to see how these storylines would unfold and how Peter would face the fallout from his actions in the previous films.

2. Missed Opportunity for Character Development

The Amazing Spider-Man series introduced complex characters and relationships that deserved further exploration. The film’s universe was rich with potential for character growth. For example, Peter’s role as Spider-Man and his personal struggles with his responsibilities were central themes that could have been deeply explored in a third installment. Additionally, the development of supporting characters like Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan) and the impact of his transformation into the Green Goblin were left in limbo. A third film could have provided the space to delve into these characters’ backstories and their evolving roles in Peter’s world.

3. Expanding the Spider-Verse

By 2016, the superhero genre was already experiencing significant growth, and the success of various superhero films indicated a thriving market for comic book adaptations. The Amazing Spider-Man 3 could have capitalized on this momentum by expanding the Spider-Verse, potentially introducing new villains or allies from Spider-Man’s extensive comic book history. This would have not only broadened the narrative scope of the franchise but also tapped into the growing trend of interconnected cinematic universes.

4. The Impact on Sony’s Spider-Man Franchise

Sony’s decision to halt The Amazing Spider-Man 3 and eventually reboot the franchise with Spider-Man: Homecoming was a pivotal moment for the company’s approach to the character. Had the third film been produced, it could have provided a smoother transition for the character, potentially paving the way for a more cohesive integration into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The delays and subsequent reboot may have resulted in missed opportunities to build on the success of the original films and to keep the franchise consistent with fan expectations.

5. Fan Engagement and Anticipation

The anticipation and enthusiasm for The Amazing Spider-Man 3 were palpable among fans. The ending of The Amazing Spider-Man 2 left audiences craving more, and the potential for a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy was a driving force for fan engagement. The strong fan base and their continued pleas for the film’s release highlight the lasting impact of the franchise and its characters. Addressing these demands could have strengthened the connection between the studio and its audience, fostering a deeper sense of loyalty and satisfaction.

6. Legacy and Cultural Impact

Finally, The Amazing Spider-Man 3 could have solidified the legacy of Andrew Garfield’s portrayal of Spider-Man. Garfield’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and nuanced approach to the character. A third installment could have further cemented his place in the Spider-Man legacy and contributed to the cultural conversation surrounding superhero films.

In conclusion, the absence of The Amazing Spider-Man 3 in 2016 represents a missed opportunity on multiple fronts. The unresolved storylines, potential for character development, expansion of the Spider-Verse, and impact on Sony’s franchise strategy all underscore the significance of what could have been. While fans continue to hope for a return to this iteration of Spider-Man, the discussion around the film’s potential serves as a reminder of the dynamic and evolving nature of superhero cinema.