Although there was initially only Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy, the brand has since expanded into a variety of continuities and franchises. While these various continuities have mostly remained separate, it appears that Morbius will be bringing them all together in some fascinating ways. Of course, it’s unclear how exactly this all works as of yet – but it definitely looks like the multiverse is at work. Especially if you’ve seen the latest Morbius trailer which actually combines all four existing Spider-Man franchises.
Fans already located some Easter eggs in the previous trailer for the upcoming film Morbius. This included a mural which resembled Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man, and an appearance from Michael Keaton as Adrian Toomes from his Spider-Man: Homecoming MCU role. These references were brought back in the newest trailer, along with a few others. Specifically, there’s a moment where Jared Leto’s Morbius looks at a Daily Bugle newspaper that references both Rhino and Black Cat. These two characters were part of the continuity from The Amazing Spider-Man.
But the references don’t stop there. The film also makes it clear that this takes place with Sony’s other recent villain spin-offs, Venom and its sequel Venom: Let There Be Carnage. There’s a moment towards the end where Morbius jokingly claims: “I am Venom!” as he takes on his vampire form. It’s a surprising little reference to the fellow anti-hero. As a result, the Morbius trailer does indeed combine a variety of Spider-Man franchises all at once.
In the new film…
“Dangerously ill with a rare blood disorder, and determined to save others suffering his same fate, Dr. Morbius attempts a desperate gamble. What at first appears to be a radical success, a darkness inside him is unleashed and transforms this healer into a hunter.”
Daniel Espinosa directed Morbius from a screenplay written by Burk Sharpless and Matt Sazama.
Aside from the aforementioned Jared Leto, the confirmed cast for the film also includes Matt Smith, Adria Arjona, Jared Harris, Al Madrigal, and Tyrese Gibson.
The highly anticipated film Morbius is currently scheduled for a January 28, 2022 release date early next year.