A new Spider-Man fan film called Spider-Man: Lotus has caused quite a stir leading up to its release online. What started as an exciting passion project has turned into a controversial situation over offensive remarks. But what exactly is this fan film that has generated such a strong reaction? And where can you watch it? This article breaks down the details of Spider-Man: Lotus, from its origins to the Twitter controversy that exploded around it alongside where you can watch it.
What is Spider-Man: Lotus?
Announced back in August 2021, Spider-Man: Lotus is the creation of filmmaker Gavin J. Konop. It was produced as a non-profit passion project without any input from Marvel Studios or Sony Pictures.
- Set shortly after Gwen Stacy’s death, Spider-Man: Lotus finds a grieving Peter Parker thinking about hanging up his Spidey suit once and for all. But then he gets a letter from a sick kid asking for a visit from Spider-Man before he passes away.
- The first teaser trailer dropped in October 2021 and got mad love from comic book fans who picked up on it being inspired by the classic story “The Kid Who Collects Spider-Man.”
Where to Watch Spider-Man: Lotus
Konop had originally planned to launch Spider-Man: Lotus on YouTube on August 10, 2023. But likely because of the controversies detailed below, the release date got pushed back to August 11 instead.
Note: You can stream the full film for free on Konop’s official YouTube channel.
Actor Warden Wayne’s Racist Past
Idk anything about the Lotus short film but I see it get so much attention and Im sure the person directing it is great I just want people to know how nasty the lead is
— Thunder (@Thnnnder) June 18, 2022
In June 2022, accusations came out about racist comments Warden Wayne had made. Wayne stars as Peter Parker and co-wrote Spider-Man: Lotus.
- A Twitter user named @Thnnnder shared alleged screenshots of Wayne using offensive and racist language on social media.
- While those kinds of images can be faked, Wayne admitted the comments were truly his from when he was younger.
- In a long Twitter apology, Wayne took responsibility but claimed to be now a changed man who regretted his previous ignorance.
I’ve been wanting to come forward about this for a long time. Please read. pic.twitter.com/kz42egpAs5
— Warden Wayne (@mrwardenwayne) June 19, 2022
Director Gavin J. Konop’s Offensive Remarks
Right after Wayne’s controversy came out, the director of Spider-Man: Lotus was facing his own accusations.
- A Twitter user called @Berkmanboom posted screenshots of offensive statements made by Gavin K. Konop.
- Konop admitted to making some divisive comments to get reactions when he was younger.
- His apology video didn’t smooth things over for many angry crowdfunding contributors who wanted their money back.
The VFX Team Quits
In response to the controversies surrounding Wayne and Konop, the visual effects team for Spider-Man: Lotus took a bold stand.
- The whole VFX crew walked off the project together soon after the remarks went public.
- One artist, Max Aurnhammer, said the film no longer aligned with “what Spider-Man represents” in a video statement.
Though fans were initially excited, controversies surrounding its stars have turned many against Spider-Man: Lotus before its release. The full film is now on YouTube. In the end, Spider-Man: Lotus shows how quickly a promising project can take an unfortunate turn.
Anyways, instead of watching Spider-Man: Lotus.
Watch Spider-Man: Cake Day instead, which is still the best Spider-Man fan film I have ever seen. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/It84fQ47sV
— Josh-Parker (@WebHeaded_Josh) August 13, 2023
If you have any further questions about where to watch Spider-Man Lotus or what is the Twitter controversy around it, comment below. We would love to hear from you and answer your questions.
For more content, stay with us here at Spiel Times. Make sure you subscribe to our push notifications and never miss an update. You can also follow us on Spiel Anime, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Until next time!
