Spider-Man 4 Snags Delay Big-Screen Debut

Fourth installment of the franchise won't make May 2011 release because of script delays

Our Spidey sense is tingling.

Just a few months ago, Tobey Maguire told us he was ready to don the Spider-Man suit again in March for the film's fourth installment, which was looking at a May 2011 release.

Now it looks like Spider-Man 4 is facing a foe worse than Doc Ock: a rejected screenplay.

Somewhere along the line, Marvel's record-breaking franchise hit a huge snag, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Director Sam Raimi is reportedly dissatisfied with the Spider-Man 4 script thus far, and without a script, filming on the long-awaited movie has been put on the back burner.

The conflict is stemming from which comic book villain should battle the webslinger. Raimi is hoping for a character known as Vulture to play the antagonist, while the studio is pushing for a burglar known as Black Cat, in addition to others.

It's unlikely the originally scheduled release date will be made, but attempts are being made to secure a summer 2011 opening—although the franchise has traditionally hit theaters in the coveted May spot.

While Sony didn't directly confirm the delay, the studio did hint that it could be a while, telling E! News: "We are completely committed to the Spider-Man franchise and know audiences will find the next film worth the wait."

We'll take that as a yes.