Excitement is building as we approach the release of the MCU’s first Fantastic Four movie. But before the project’s current director, Matt Shakman, took the reins, Jon Watts was set to direct. The mastermind behind the Spider-Man: Home trilogy stepped away from the project in 2022, citing a well-deserved need for a break.
In a recent storytelling class at the Mediterrane Film Festival, Watts opened up about feeling “out of gas” after wrapping up Spider-Man: No Way Home, which was filmed during the chaotic early days of the pandemic. He shared that navigating the various Covid protocols while striving for creativity amid safety concerns was incredibly challenging. Furthermore, postproduction issues arose, as the global supply chain disruptions affected the work of international VFX vendors, complicating the delivery of visual effects.
“I knew I didn’t have what it would’ve taken to make Fantastic Four great,” Watts admitted. “I was just out of steam.” He expressed gratitude towards Marvel for allowing him to step away, recognizing that making high-caliber films is rewarding, yet there’s no point in proceeding if the quality cannot be maintained. Subsequently, he turned his focus to a smaller project titled Wolfs, featuring a limited cast, before co-creating Star Wars: Skeleton Crew with Chris Ford.
Watts plans to watch Fantastic Four: First Steps when it premieres on July 25, describing it as a “totally surreal experience.”
What did Jon Watts say about leaving the Fantastic Four project?
Watts candidly acknowledged that he felt depleted and didn’t believe he could deliver the quality needed to make the film great.
What challenges did Watts face during the production of Spider-Man: No Way Home?
The director faced immense difficulties due to Covid protocols and supply chain interruptions affecting VFX work during postproduction.
What projects did Jon Watts take on after stepping away from Fantastic Four?
After leaving the Fantastic Four project, Watts directed the smaller film Wolfs and co-created Star Wars: Skeleton Crew.
Why did Jon Watts express gratitude towards Marvel?
Watts appreciated Marvel for allowing him to prioritize his well-being and step down from a major project rather than compromise on the film’s quality.
As the Marvel universe continues to expand, insights from directors like Jon Watts remind us of the pressures they face and the importance of creative integrity. For the latest movie release updates and more behind-the-scenes stories, stay connected with film news through platforms like Moyens I/O.