Chris Columbus Says He Was Fired from 2005’s “Fantastic Four” for Having ‘Too Much of an Opinion’ Despite Working on the Script

Chris Columbus, the renowned director behind iconic films such as Home Alone and the first two Harry Potter movies, recently revealed a surprising twist in his career. In a shocking revelation on the Fade to Black podcast, Columbus disclosed that he was fired from the 2005 film ‘Fantastic Four’ for allegedly having “too much of an opinion.”

Columbus, who kickstarted his career in 1987 with ‘Adventures in Babysitting’ and has since directed over 25 films, including classics like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire,’ had a longstanding aspiration to delve into the world of superhero movies. His superhero dream was cut short when he was let go from the ‘Fantastic Four’ project for providing too much creative input. Despite working on an early script for the film in 1995, Columbus found himself at odds with the vision endorsed by the studio.

The experienced director described the situation as “weird,” noting that although he had contributed to the script and was slated to produce the movie, disagreements arose when he suggested incorporating elements inspired by Jack Kirby’s art style and Marvel’s Silver Age into the project. Unfortunately, his ideas were not well-received, leading to his abrupt dismissal from the production.

Following the discordant meeting, Columbus allegedly received a phone call from the head of 20th Century Fox, informing him of his termination from the project due to his strong opinions. Despite being credited as an executive producer on the final film, Columbus distanced himself from the 2005 ‘Fantastic Four,’ emphasizing that he had no involvement in the outcome. This setback soured his appetite for superhero movies, prompting him to step away from the genre entirely.

Reflecting on the missed opportunity to work on a Marvel film, Columbus acknowledged that other filmmakers were now excelling in the superhero genre, making his contributions pale in comparison. Although ‘Fantastic Four’ marked a turning point in his career, the experience did not deter Columbus from pursuing his creative endeavors in the industry.

In subsequent years, Columbus veered towards projects that embraced heart, humor, and magic over superhero elements. His involvement in ‘Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief’ came closest to directing a superhero movie. Presently, as he promotes his latest Netflix venture, ‘Thursday Murder Club,’ based on Richard Osman’s bestselling novel, Columbus shared his approach to adapting beloved book series into compelling on-screen narratives.

With an illustrious career spanning decades, Columbus continues to captivate audiences with his storytelling prowess, showcasing a versatile range that transcends genres. As he navigates the ever-evolving landscape of filmmaking, his candid reflections on past setbacks serve as a testament to his resilience and adaptability in an industry known for its unpredictability.

Despite the obstacles faced along the way, Columbus’ enduring passion for storytelling and commitment to bringing cherished stories to life underscore his status as a revered figure in the world of cinema. As audiences anticipate his future projects with eager anticipation, Columbus remains a testament to the unwavering spirit of creativity that drives him forward in his artistic pursuits.