Word on the street (and by 'street,' we mean The Hollywood Reporter) is that Spider-Man 2 filmmakers have honed in on at least four young actors vying for the role of Harry Osborne. According to Reporter "insiders," those in the running are Sam Claflin (Snow White and the Huntsmen), Eddie Redmayne (My Week With Marilyn), Douglas Booth (LOL), and Boyd Holbrook (Hatfields & McCoys).
Recently it was reported that early casting of Osborne called for a "dark, brooding" type, similar to James Franco's approach in the Sam Raimi-directed series. More brooding/less twinkle-in-the-eye heartthrobs like Dane DeHaan (Chronicle), Alden Ehrenreich (Beautiful Creatures), and Brady Corbet (Funny Games) were initially considered.
Now, somewhat predictably, studio sources say the filmmakers are seeking actors that possess conventional Hollywood qualities like "athleticism" and "good looks," which suggests a different direction for the character. That they maintain the Marvel ideal, is always the concern from die-hard fans.
Sony declined comment.