Filming on the Spider-Man sequel has started

Film studio Sony must make details of commercial deals for the hit Spider-Man film public, a judge has ruled.

Sony is embroiled in a $50m (�32m) legal battle with comic book publisher Marvel, who say the film company broke an agreement by using Spider-Man to promote other Sony products.

Sony wants proceedings closed to the public and documents sealed - made secret - but Marvel wants a jury trial.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Alexander Williams said there was no compelling reason to keep details under wraps because the case did not involve trade secrets that needed special protection.

"I don't think sealing documents in this case will afford much secrecy or protection in this case," the judge said.

"I have zero faith in confidentiality."

Impartial referee

Marvel is seeking $50m and the termination of the licensing deal between the companies after the Spider-Man film sequel comes out in 2004.

But he put off a decision on whether to agree to Sony's request to refer the case to a "referee" - usually a retired judge appointed by the court and chosen by the two sides.

The first Spider-Man film was the biggest hit of 2002, making more than $800m (�500m) at worldwide box offices.

If Sony loses the case, it will mean the media giant will lose one of its most profitable franchises.

Marvel says it is not trying to disrupt production of the sequel.

Filming on the follow-up started in New York last week.