Digital Phablet – Director and comic book enthusiast Jon Bolerjack recently disclosed that his documentary about Stan Lee, which he started filming in 2024 to chronicle how the legendary Marvel icon spent his 90s before passing, has reportedly encountered resistance from industry insiders.
“Stan Lee: The Final Chapter” is scheduled to premiere on streaming platforms today. Alongside capturing Stan Lee’s late-life story in his 90s, Bolerjack previously shared that the film will also shed light on how the industry exploited the American comic book creator and editor, including individuals within his inner circle.
Among those accused are two former managers of Lee, who in 2019 faced charges of fraud, theft, and unlawful deprivation of liberty.
The film’s release was made possible by the $300,000 raised through Bolerjack’s Kickstarter crowdfunding effort, promising viewers an extensive behind-the-scenes look at Stan Lee’s turbulent final years and revealing how mistreatment and conflicts threatened his life and legacy.
Industry opposition claims Bolerjack
While many praise Bolerjack for challenging industry norms by streaming the highly anticipated documentary, numerous comic book fans have taken to social media to present evidence warning against Bolerjack and his alleged history of profiting from Stan Lee.
A Reddit user detailed how Bolerjack supposedly capitalized on Lee’s fame— having the Marvel legend sign artwork for later sale, using Lee’s likeness to promote merchandise, and sharing luxury trips with Lee, including visits to Tokyo Disney and the exclusive Club 33 restaurant.
Additionally, “SmonkBandikush” cited a YouTube video by “Mata Nui,” claiming Bolerjack sold autographed comics and memorabilia of Lee for significant sums and used images of Lee to create NFTs.
Mata Nui argued that the documentary isn’t driven by altruism but rather aimed at profiting from the late Stan Lee. Fans also questioned why Bolerjack hadn’t released footage from the project earlier.
Stan Lee, who died at the age of 95 in 2018, was renowned for co-creating Marvel’s most iconic characters, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, The Hulk, and many others.