The highly anticipated debut of Marvel’s “Fantastic Four” on the big screen has been met with a surprisingly strong reaction from no other than Deadpool co-creator, Rob Liefeld. Known for his candid remarks, Liefeld recently expressed profound disdain for the latest adaptation of Marvel’s First Family, signaling a notable divergence from the general anticipation surrounding the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Liefeld’s critical assessment surfaced following a 5 PM IMAX screening of the film, where he notably characterized the experience as “impossibly dull & boring.” His public declaration, accompanied by an image of a sparsely attended theater, quickly ignited discussions among fans and industry observers, raising questions about the film’s immediate reception among a vocal segment of its audience.
However, the observed low attendance at a specific Tuesday afternoon IMAX showing might not be entirely indicative of the film’s overall quality or broader appeal. Factors such as the timing of the screening—when many are still at work or commuting home—and the higher cost associated with IMAX tickets can significantly influence audience turnout, suggesting a more nuanced interpretation is warranted.
This recent critique is not an isolated incident but rather a continuation of Rob Liefeld’s ongoing critical streak aimed at Marvel projects. Previously, the renowned comic book artist voiced dissatisfaction with major events like “Secret Wars,” consistently challenging aspects of the studio’s creative direction and thematic choices within its vast narrative universe.
The criticism from Liefeld also follows his decision to sever ties with Marvel in February 2024, a move that reportedly stemmed from issues evolving since 2023 and culminating in perceived slights at the New York premiere. While he later cited age as the primary reason for his retirement from working on Deadpool comics, these prior disputes underscore a deeper, more entrenched dissatisfaction with the publisher.
Despite Liefeld’s personal reservations, the “Fantastic Four” film has garnered a largely positive reception from critics and audiences alike. The movie boasts impressive scores on Rotten Tomatoes, with an 86% Tomatometer rating from critics and an even higher 92% Popcornmeter score from verified audiences, indicating a substantial level of popular and critical acclaim.
Looking ahead, the future of the Fantastic Four within the Marvel Cinematic Universe appears robust. A sequel is reportedly already in active development, potentially securing one of the four theatrical slots Marvel has tentatively scheduled for 2028. This commitment signals Marvel’s confidence in the franchise’s long-term viability and popularity.
Fans will not have to wait until 2028 for their next encounter with Marvel’s First Family, as they are slated to appear in “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” followed by the highly anticipated “Avengers: Secret Wars” in December 2027. One can only hope that these monumental ensemble appearances will prove more entertaining for Rob Liefeld, perhaps shifting his perspective on their cinematic journey.
