A new exchange between a Marvel veteran and a major MCU newcomer has reignited discussions about the Fantastic: Four franchise’s visual effects. The latest remark highlights ongoing debates over the MCU’s direction, while fans continue to weigh in on both the criticism and the response. Social media quickly picked up the interaction, sparking a flurry of memes and fan commentary.
Ralph Ineson Claps Back at Fantastic: Four Criticism
Rob Liefeld, co-creator of Deadpool, had reposted a GIF of Galactus from The Fantastic Four: First Steps and wrote:
“Looks so fake. The Marvel FX fell off a cliff.”
Fans immediately noticed the harsh critique because Liefeld often speaks openly about his dissatisfaction with recent MCU productions.
In response, Ralph Ineson, who portrays Galactus in the film, replied:
“Rent free “
Consequently, this playful reply subtly dismissed Liefeld’s criticism while still demonstrating a sense of humor, which resonated with fans. Many praised Ineson for his witty comeback, noting that it reflected the confidence of the MCU’s cast in their performances.
Rob Liefeld’s History With the MCU
However, Liefeld has previously expressed dissatisfaction with Marvel’s handling of his projects, particularly regarding Deadpool and Wolverine. He revealed:
“My request for special credit in these films was denied,”
He also added that Marvel placed his name in the standard end-credits section for comic creators.
Moreover, Liefeld shared:
“I and my family were not invited to the premiere afterparty,” and claimed:
“Kevin Feige does not acknowledge me on the red carpet despite standing nearby. The situation was meant to embarrass, diminish, defeat me.”
These experiences ultimately led him to cut ties with Marvel, as he detailed on his podcast (via The Hollywood Reporter). His criticisms have since sparked wider conversations about how blockbuster franchises recognize and treat comic creators.
Post-Film Criticism and Box Office Success
Months after the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Liefeld posted a photo of an almost empty IMAX theater and said:
“It’s impossibly dull and boring.”
Despite this, the film performed extremely well with audiences and earned largely positive reviews. Critics scored it at 86%, while audiences gave it 90% on Rotten Tomatoes. It also grossed over $521 million worldwide. The film ends with Galactus losing the battle and leaving for another part of the universe, which sets the stage for future MCU storylines.
Fans have also praised the Fantastic: Four film’s character development, visual style, and incorporation of comic book lore, suggesting that Liefeld’s critique doesn’t fully reflect audience sentiment. This debate illustrates the often differing perspectives between creators and viewers on cinematic adaptations of beloved comics.
Meanwhile, The Fantastic Four will make a return in Avengers: Doomsday, with Doctor Doom set as the main antagonist. As the MCU continues to expand, debates over visual effects, creative direction, and character adaptations are likely to remain a hot topic among fans and creators alike.
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