Spider-Man 3 is a superhero film directed by Sam Raimi, the third installment in the original Spider-Man trilogy. Released on May 4, 2007, the movie was produced by Columbia Pictures in association with Marvel Entertainment. It stars Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, James Franco as Harry Osborn, Thomas Haden Church as Flint Marko/Sandman, and Topher Grace as Eddie Brock/Venom. The film also features Bryce Dallas Howard as Gwen Stacy and J.K. Simmons reprising his iconic role as J. Jonah Jameson.

The story follows Peter Parker as he struggles with his dual identity as Spider-Man and his personal relationships. Peter’s life takes a dark turn when an alien symbiote bonds with him, amplifying his aggression and ego. Meanwhile, Flint Marko, revealed to be the true killer of Peter’s Uncle Ben, becomes the Sandman after a freak accident. Harry Osborn, still seeking revenge for his father’s death, takes on the mantle of the New Goblin. Eddie Brock, a rival photographer, transforms into Venom after bonding with the symbiote Peter rejects. The film culminates in a climactic battle where Spider-Man teams up with Harry to defeat Sandman and Venom, though Harry sacrifices himself in the process.

Despite mixed reviews from critics, Spider-Man 3 was a massive box office success, grossing $894.9 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of the trilogy. Critics praised the visual effects and action sequences but criticized the overcrowded plot and lack of focus due to the inclusion of multiple villains. Sam Raimi later admitted that studio interference, particularly the forced inclusion of Venom, hindered his creative vision.

The film’s success cemented the Spider-Man trilogy as one of the most influential superhero franchises of the 2000s. It also paved the way for future Spider-Man adaptations, though plans for a fourth installment with Raimi and Maguire were ultimately canceled, leading to a reboot of the series in 2012. Despite its flaws, Spider-Man 3 remains a memorable chapter in the Spider-Man legacy.