Inhumans performed admirably over Labor Day weekend but it wasn't exactly a hit with a total of $2.6 million across 676 IMAX screens worldwide. Reviews have also torn into the series and not even fans of the likes of Agent Carter and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. seem overly fussed on the first two episodes of the show. As a result, it probably won't surprise you to learn that ABC isn't best pleased with Marvel!
According to Variety, the IMAX investment means Inhumans is effectively paid for regardless of its theatrical performance or how many viewers it draws in on ABC. That could explain why Marvel appeared to scrimp and save on the show and why the costumes to special effects were problematic.
Sources tell the trade that ABC had concerns over the quality of Inhumans - including "both the special effects of early cuts and the underpinning scripts" - from the start and those became a "source of contention between ABC and Marvel." It's also thought that the box office numbers will bring a halt to any future investments from IMAX and that means they're on their own if season two happens.
The relationship between ABC and Marvel is unlikely to change as they're both owned by Disney but it would be surprising if some big changes aren't now made behind the scenes. What do you think?