‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ Adds Bob Persichetti and Justin K. Thompson as Directors for Trilogy’s Grand Finale
The highly anticipated third installment in Sony’s animated Spider-Verse series, “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse,” has officially named Bob Persichetti and Justin K. Thompson as its directors. Both creatives have been instrumental to the franchise’s success, making this announcement a natural progression for the web-slinging trilogy’s conclusion.
A Visionary Creative Duo
Bob Persichetti was part of the directorial trio that helmed 2018’s Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, introducing audiences to Miles Morales and pioneering the animated multiverse concept. Persichetti later served as an executive producer on 2023’s critically acclaimed Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
Justin K. Thompson, a celebrated production designer on the original Into the Spider-Verse, expanded his role as one of the three directors for Across the Spider-Verse, alongside Joaquim Dos Santos and Kemp Powers.
In a joint statement, Persichetti and Thompson expressed their excitement about concluding Miles Morales’ story:
“We have had the immense privilege of being part of Miles’ journey from the very beginning, and directing the conclusion to his story is beyond exciting. We have crafted what we feel is a very satisfying ending, and we can’t wait for fans to experience it. We’re bringing everything we’ve got.”
A Critical and Commercial Success Story
The Spider-Verse franchise has redefined animation and storytelling since its debut.
- “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” grossed $384 million globally and won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature in 2019, introducing the multiverse concept before it became a staple in superhero cinema.
- The 2023 sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” shattered expectations, surpassing the first film’s box office total in just 12 days and closing its run at an impressive $690 million worldwide.
The third film, Beyond the Spider-Verse, was initially slated for 2024 but has been delayed to an unknown date as the creative team ensures it delivers a fitting conclusion to Miles Morales’ story.
The Creative Team Behind the Trilogy
The film will once again feature the creative leadership of Phil Lord and Chris Miller, who will return to co-write the screenplay and produce alongside Amy Pascal, Avi Arad, and Jinko Gotoh. Aditya Sood and Christina Steinberg are executive producers, while Jessica Berri will serve as co-producer.
In a statement, Lord and Miller praised the new directors:
“Bob and Justin’s fingerprints are woven into the DNA of these films, and their passion for Miles’ journey shines through in every frame of his last adventure. There is nothing more rewarding than collaborating with creative partners with bold vision and brilliant execution like Bob and Justin.”
Persichetti and Thompson’s Legacy
- Bob Persichetti brings a wealth of experience, having co-written The Little Prince (2016) and contributed to beloved projects such as Puss in Boots, Shrek 2, and The Emperor’s New Groove.
- Justin K. Thompson is an animation veteran, celebrated for his production design work on Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and its sequel.
What’s Next for Beyond the Spider-Verse?
While Sony has yet to confirm the updated release date, the creative team’s commitment to excellence signals that the film will deliver a visually stunning and emotionally satisfying conclusion to Miles Morales’ journey. Fans of the Spider-Verse can expect innovative storytelling, cutting-edge animation, and the high stakes that have defined the trilogy’s success.
Stay tuned for more updates as “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse” swings closer to its long-awaited debut.
