Doctor Who star Matt Smith can't believe Keanu Reeves has seen his Marvel flop Morbius: "Not f**king Morbius... My God"

Smith’s reaction stems from Morbius’ dismal critical reception (15% on Rotten Tomatoes) and its failure to meet financial expectations despite a $167.5 million worldwide gross against an $83 million budget. The film, which features Smith as a villainous character, became an unintentional meme sensation, prompting Sony to re-release it in theaters. Smith’s surprise at Reeves’ viewing choice highlights the contrast between Reeves’ discerning action-horror tastes (he has authored related comics) and Morbius’ status as a cultural punchline. Smith’s public comments—while complimentary to Reeves—underscore the film’s reputation as a cinematic misfire, even as it boasts a 71% audience score.

Reeves’ reported interest in the film aligns with his history of engaging with niche or meme-driven content, such as his involvement in the John Wick franchise and his advocacy for practical effects in genre films. Morbius’ paradoxical success—floundering at the box office yet gaining traction through ridicule—reflects a broader trend where underperforming media resurfaces via internet culture. Sony’s decision to repackage the film for memes mirrors strategies used by studios to salvage underperforming projects, such as Disney’s marketing of flop-turned-meme The Grey. This case also illustrates the growing divide between critic and audience scores, with Morbius’ 71% audience rating suggesting a segment found value in its campy execution despite its critical panning.

The film’s streaming availability on Disney Plus adds another layer, as it may attract viewers seeking content to mock or dissect, a model Netflix and others have exploited with cult classics. However, Morbius’ performance raises risks for Marvel and Sony’s future collaborations, particularly in balancing IP expansion with creative execution. Studios should monitor how meme-driven re-releases impact brand perception for franchises, while actors like Smith risk reputational strain from being associated with high-profile failures. Creators and studios may also need to consider how to leverage internet humor proactively rather than reactively, as seen in the success of intentionally campy projects like Scream or The Room.