The writer behind thriller Zodiac, James Vanderbilt, has been snapped up to write Spider-Man 4.

Known for taking a character-driven approach to writing rather than overindulging on special effects, Vanderbilt’s appointment is an indication that bigwigs are looking to take a different approach to the fourth installment.

Spider-Man 3 was widely criticised for its overburdened plot, as Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man laboriously battled three villains. It is now rumoured the next adventure will involve no more than two baddies.

It has not been confirmed if Maguire, co-star Kirsten Dunst, or series director Sam Raimi are to join the project.