Nikki Finke at her Deadline Hollywood Daily blog claims that Tobey Maguire and Sam Raimi have both signed on to return for another Spider-Man movie, despite claims that both were ready to quit the successful and profitable franchise.

She also claims that previous reports of Spider-Man 4 and 5 being shot back-to-back are absolutely correct.

Kirsten Dunst has yet to agree on a return, though Finke believes the Mary Jane Watson character won’t be re-cast if she declines the offer. Presumably the storyline involving Gwen Stacy will be progressed in the two movies, with or without Mary Jane.

Earlier this year, Zodiac scribe James Vanderbilt handed in the script for Spider-Man 4 which Finke believes will begin production next fall for a May 2011 release.

She also hints that Dr. Curt Connors will transform into The Lizard and will be the main villain of the next film, something that I think everyone agrees is the logical choice for the next film.

source - aicn