Briton to star as movie superhero

BRITISH actor Andrew Garfield is to play superhero Spider-Man in a new 3D Hollywood blockbuster.

The relatively unknown 26-year-old, who was born in the US to Anglo-American parents and brought up in Surrey, will start shooting the as-yet untitled film in December.

Before being lined up to play Peter Parker, the ordinary man who acquires superpowers after being bitten by a radioactive spider, the rising star appeared in acclaimed small screen dramas such as Channel 4's Red Riding.

In 2008 he scooped a best actor TV Bafta for Boy A, for his portrayal of a young child killer haunted by his past.

The new film is said to focus on a younger Peter Parker.

British actors Jamie Bell, who shot to fame in Billy Elliot, and Kick Ass star Aaron Johnson had also been thought to be in the frame.

Marc Webb, who made quirky romantic movie (500) Days of Summer is directing the movie based on the adventures of the Marvel Comics hero.

Garfield and Webb landed the roles after previous star Tobey Maguire and director Sam Raimi, who made three Spider-Man films together, departed amid story and scheduling issues over a fourth film.

Film distributor Sony Pictures made the casting announcement.

"Though his name may be new to many, those who know this young actor's work understand his extraordinary talents," Webb said.

"He has a rare combination of intelligence, wit, and humanity.

"Mark my words, you will love Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker."

Among Garfield's other credits are the upcoming The Social Network, about the founders of Facebook, andthe drama, Never Let Me Go.