csaI have complete faith in Sam Raimi et al when it comes to the Spider-Man franchise. The only thing that I have ever felt was missing from the films was Spidey’s wise-cracks – they’re there, but they should be coming faster.

I certainly never felt that the films skimped on villains. But someone must have, if the latest reports are true, as Rich Johnston over at Comic Book Resources is claiming that the Black Cat will be appearing in Spider-Man 3. She’s being played by Theresa Russell, announced last week as Flint (Sandman) Marko’s wife – and if you recall, part of a villainous duo.

So what’s the score for Spidey 3? We have Sandman. If Johnston is right we have Black Cat. If other rumors are right we have Venom (to be played by Topher Grace). And finally we supposedly have a new Green Goblin/Hobgoblin. Those are just the FOUR bad guys – we also have Gwen Stacey joining the franchise, and she’s going to require some screentime. I don’t want to second guess the talented folks who have reassembled for this film, but things seem a touch X3-ish these days. Maybe there are two more unannounced villains and we’re going to get a Sinister Six story. That’s the sound of me thinking positively.