When it comes to comic book adaptations, major franchises like Marvel and DC often face significant issues with their films’ reception, based on casting choices. Take for example the 2015 Fantastic Four reboot, which struggled mightily with Michael B. Jordan’s version of Human Torch after Chris Evans’ charming portrayal of Johnny Storm.
After Chris Evans paved the way for his character as the Human Torch in the 2005 installment Fantastic Four and the 2007 sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, the 2015 reboot starring Michael B. Jordan stirred considerable debate. Following Evans’ charismatic and comedic approach to the character that resonated with audiences, Jordan’s new iteration of the Human Torch was unfortunately perceived as a downgrade by many fans.
Chris Evans’ Human Torch vs Michael B. Jordan’s Fantastic Four Hero
Marvel’s Fantastic Four franchise has undoubtedly been one of the few comic book adaptations to witness the most reboots and installments through generations. However, despite the uncountable films, Chris Evans’ 2005 and 2007 installments remained the most favorable ones for modern audiences. Marked by a youthful exuberance and a playful sense of humor, Evans’ performance as Johnny Storm set the bar high.
After Chris Evans made the character memorable, by capturing the essence of the flamboyant and rebellious nature of the Human Torch, it contributed to the films’ appeal. Turning Fantastic Four (2005) and its 2007 sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer fan-favorites, Evans dropped out of the role to play Captain America in the MCU. Thereafter, when Marvel relaunched the franchise in 2015, Michael B. Jordan donned the role of Johnny Storm.
The 2015 reboot of Fantastic Four, with a new direction and a younger cast, was undoubtedly considered a bold attempt for Marvel. However, when Michael B. Jordan was cast as a new version of Johnny Storm, his appearance was met with praise for its diversity and criticism for its departure from the character’s previous portrayal. Jordan’s Johnny Storm was considered darker and more brooding compared to Chris Evans’ lighthearted version.
Michael B. Jordan’s Version of Human Torch Faced Significant Backlash
This visible shift in tone and character depth of Johnny Storm aka Human Torch did not resonate well with Marvel fans. Audiences felt that Michael B. Jordan’s 2015 reboot lacked the charisma and fun of its predecessor. Therefore, soon enough, Jordan’s version of Human Torch was marked by controversies, which further impacted the reception of the actor’s performance.
The controversy surrounding Michael B. Jordan‘s Human Torch was attributed to several factors. One of which was based on the film’s overall shift in tone that diverged significantly from the Chris Evans’ Fantastic Four films. Considering how Marvel aimed for a more serious and grounded approach, the shift became jarring for fans, since they were accustomed to the vibrant and playful take.
Further, netizens highlighted the underwhelming aspect of the script, as well as the cringe dialogues, that failed to meet fans’ expectations. Sparking a comparison between Chris Evans and Michael B. Jordan’s portrayals, Marvel fans thus openly claimed that the latter’s casting decisions were a significant downgrade. Considering how Evans’ portrayal was a benchmark for the character, Jordan’s version, despite its potential, was therefore overshadowed.
Finally, despite Michael B. Jordan’s portrayal of the Human Torch bringing a new perspective to the character, it faced significant backlash, partly due to the high bar set by Chris Evans.
Fantastic Four films are available on Disney+.
