Disney’s Marvel takeover ensnares Hollywood in Spider-Man web

Walt Disney Co., the world’s biggest media company, outflanked Hollywood competitors while enhancing its film lineup with the $4 billion acquisition of comic-book pioneer Marvel Entertainment Inc. As Marvel’s new owner, Disney will collect license fees from Universal Orlando theme-park rides in Florida that include “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man” and “Incredible Hulk Coaster,” as well as ticket sales from the films “Iron Man 2” and “Thor,” distributed by Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures.

With Marvel, Disney is buying its way into business with competitors who have had rights to super-hero films, theme-park rides and television shows for years. Disney, based in Burbank, California, gains a stake in revenue streams that have enriched its rivals -- until it can take over the deals itself.