Ralph Ineson Hits Back at Rob Liefeld After THE FANTASTIC FOUR VFX Criticism
The online discourse around Marvel Studios and The Fantastic Four: First Steps has been loud, emotional, and full of strong opinions. That conversation grew even louder after Rob Liefeld took another public swipe at the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
This time, he aimed directly at the film’s depiction of Galactus. What he didn’t expect was a response from the character’s on screen performer himself, Ralph Ineson, who decided to set the record straight.
Back in February, Liefeld revealed he had cut ties with Marvel. The Deadpool co-creator expressed several frustrations that had been simmering for a while. He pointed to not being invited to the Deadpool & Wolverine premiere after party and not receiving a “created by” credit in the film’s opening sequence as major tipping points.
Depending on who you ask, some felt he had reasonable grievances while others saw it as an overreaction.
In the months since, Liefeld has kept up a steady stream of criticism directed at Marvel across social media. Even fans who have stood by him creatively have started to question his motives, noting that the posts come across as petty and unnecessarily antagonistic.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps became one of his latest targets. Liefeld recently called out a Galactus moment for looking “fake,” using it as another excuse to take a jab at Marvel Studios.
When Liefeld took aim at the film’s VFX, Ineson chimed in with a short but clear response. He didn’t insult or escalate. He simply replied with: “Rent Free” with a laughing emoji.
It was the kind of response that got its point across without needing to be aggressive. Fans quickly pointed out how measured it was, especially given the constant negativity Liefeld has directed at the MCU lately.
There has been a perception in some circles that The Fantastic Four: First Steps struggled financially, but the film pushed past the $500 million mark worldwide. It wasn’t the powerhouse hit Marvel may have been hoping for, although in today’s theatrical climate, that total is still far from a flop.
The team will return in Avengers: Doomsday, and rumor has it director Matt Shakman has spoken with the studio about coming back for another film. Marvel appears confident that audiences will warm to this version of the First Family once they see them interact with more of the MCU.
Liefeld may continue voicing his frustrations, but this latest exchange shows that the cast is willing to stand behind their work.