As we approach the release of Marvel and Sony’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, the latter studio is gearing up to launch its broader Spidey #franchise.

Variety says that Gina Prince-Bythewood (Beyond the Lights) will direct Sony’s Silver Sable and Black Cat. According to the report, in the comics, “Silver Sable is a mercenary who runs a company that hunts war criminals. Black Cat is burglar named Felicia Hardy, who briefly appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, played by Felicity Jones.”

The new movie won’t be a crossover with any Spider-Man movie, so don’t expect these characters to eventually play into Disney’s MCU. Rather, Sony is looking to squeeze some success out of the remaining characters that they own now that Spidey is with the Avengers.

Comic readers know there’s plenty of backstory to work with for Silver Sable and Black Cat. Only question is: Can they launch franchises or even drive big box offices?

We give Sony credit for trying. Marvel is still a long way off from giving us Captain Marvel or a Black Widow movie. Reports indicate Silver Sable and Black Cat may begin filming as soon as later this year.

This isn’t the only Spidey Spinoff in the pipeline. Just last week we told you Tom Hardy was cast as Venom.