In the latest move to furtherMarvel’s permutation into every corner of entertainment, Sony is looking to Amazon to potentially distribute a “suite” of shows based on stories from the comics behemoth. The collection of shows, notably including a live action adaptation of the comicSilk, have been in the planning stages for some time.
Though Sony eventually plans to have Amazon distribute the shows, they reportedly hope to initially air them on a traditional network before moving to a streaming format.Silkis currently the only confirmed property in the collection of series, however the whole deal is worth some attention due to being helmed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, known for the fantasticSpider-Man: Into the Spider-VerseandLEGOmovies. (The LEGO Batman Movieis absolutely worth everyone’s time. Just putting that out there.) Sony reached a deal with the duo in April of 2019 to oversee development of the suite.
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The idea is akin to Marvel’s former run of Netflix shows, which featuredDaredevil,Jessica Jones,Luke Cage, andIron Fist, as well asThe Defenderswhich brought them all together. It’s unknown whether this new series of shows will follow a similar structure, though considering it’s Marvel, who features more crossovers than a Boy Scouts knot guide, it’s probably safe to assume.
Silk, which was confirmed as part of the collection shortly after the deal was made, features Korean-American student and classmate of Peter Parker, Cindy Moon. In the canon of the comics, Cindy was bitten by the same radioactive spider that turned Peter intoSpider-Man, giving her spider-based powers of her own. The character, who debuted in 2014, could be an excellent addition to high-profile superhero shows, as well as an important step forward for diversity with its Korean-American lead.
The character was all but confirmed in 2017’sSpider-Man: Homecomingand again in 2018’sAvengers: Infinity Warwhen actress Tiffany Espensen appeared in cameos as Cindy, though little more has come of it aside from aSilkmovie announcement in 2018 that has yet to bear fruit. She was originally planned to be included inInto the Spider-Verse, but was replaced early on with Peni Parker. However, she has beenheavily teased for the film’s sequel, so hopeful fans can probably get excited again.
It is unclear how closely the show will follow the comics, and a little deviation might not be a bad thing, considering part of the story includes Cindy and Peter being irresistibly attracted to each other. Removing that aspect could grant Cindy/Silk some much needed agency. More representation is always a worthwhile endeavor, soSilkis already a notable addition to the roster. Considering her replacement inSpider-Verse, her appearance will be a a bit of a long time coming. HopefullySilkand the rest of the upcoming shows are worth the wait, and with thedream duo of Lord and Millerbehind them, those hopes have some weight behind them.
