Fox still has hope for more 'Fantastic Four' despite reboot flop

Producer Hutch Parker (L) and writer Simon Kinberg (2nd L) smile with cast members (L-R) Jamie Bell, Kate Mara, Miles Teller and Michael B. Jordan at the premiere of the film Fantastic Four in the Brooklyn borough of New York August 4, 2015. Reuters/Lucas Jackson

Despite receiving negative reviews for its reboot on the classic “Fantastic Four” comic book story, Fox is still determined to create more films where the “Fantastic Four” characters are involved. Fox Domestic Distribution Chief Chris Aronson talked about the future of the characters during an interview with the Hollywood Reporter.

The Hollywood Reporter (THR) reached out to Aronson to quiz him on the fate of the “Fantastic Four” sequel considering the reboot’s poor reception from viewers. However, Aronson declined to comment on the sequel, which is slated for a U.S. release in June 9, 2017. Instead, he talked about how Fox is still “committed” to these “Fantastic Four” characters. The studio is reportedly still confident in these characters’ capabilities and potential in making a name for themselves in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

“While we're disappointed, we remain committed to these characters and we have a lot to look forward to in our Marvel universe,” Aronson told THR.

Media outlets are now pondering on the fate of the “Fantastic Four” sequel after the reboot barely met its production budget of $120 (AU$163) million. The film reportedly only earned $26.2 (AU$36) million when it debuted in 3,995 theatres in North America. The Hollywood Reporter says the film also only received a C- CinemaScore rating.

Aronson’s confirmation that Fox is still planning to do more films with the “Fantastic Four” characters brings various theories as to where “Fantastic Four 2” could be headed. Comic Book reports that if Fox fails to make another “Fantastic Four” movie then the rights to the characters could be given back to Marvel. Thus, there have been speculations that the studio could put these characters in a crossover with the “X-Men.”

The Daily Superhero also reports on the rumours that Fox is planning to drop the “Fantastic Four 2” for a “Deadpool” sequel. The studio is said to be capitalising on the early buzz surrounding the movie so it plans to air “Deadpool 2” on June 9, 2017.

However, Comic Book reports that Fox is really in no pressure to make another “Fantastic Four” movie successful since they still have “Deadpool” and “Gambit” to focus on. “Deadpool” has been receiving high praises since the official trailer debuted last week. Channing Tatum has also signed on for the lead role in “Gambit,” which is said to be another one of Fox’s most-anticipated films.

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