With Martin Sheen tagged to play Uncle Ben in Sony’s reboot of Spider-Man, attention now turns to the role of Aunt May. THR recently broke the news that none other than Academy Award-winning actress Sally Field is in talks to take on the prolific role, memorably portrayed by Rosemary Harris in Sam Raimi’s previous Spidey trilogy. While negotiations have just started, one can only hope this casting choice comes to fruition as Field is an incredible talent who would embody the genial heart and soul needed to bring the character to life.

Aunt May is one of the most important characters in the Spider-Man universe. After the death of Uncle Ben she remained Peter Parker’s only familial connection. As stated, Harris provided a stellar take on the character, so Field, assuming she gets the part, will have some tough shoes to fill. Spider-Man is directed by Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer) and stars Andrew Garfield (The Social Network), Emma Stone (Easy A) and Rhys Ifans (Notting Hill). The film is set for a July 2012 release. Hit the jump for more web-action.

I was one of the many who were disappointed in Sam Raimi’s departure from the Spidey series. While part three was an oddity, the first two were spectacular achievements in comic-book filmmaking (that Green Goblin costume notwithstanding).

However, I must say I’m growing more and more excited for the reboot with each passing day. Garfield, in my opinion, will make a terrific Peter Parker/Spider-Man (if you don’t believe me, check out his killer performance in The Social Network), while Stone and Ifans are solid choices as Gwen Stacy and Doctor Connors.

The casting of Martin Sheen though is something of a master stroke, while the addition of Momma Gump (if she gets cast) is reason enough for me to believe Sony is headed in the right direction.

What do you think? Is this a good move? Can Field fill the shoes of Harris?