The Hollywood Reporter today confirmed what the Ain't It Cool website reported last week--director Peyton Reed has walked away from the Twentieth Century Fox adaptation of the Fantastic Four.  A studio spokesperson trotted out that old bromide 'creative differences' to describe the reason for Reed's departure.  Reed, who directed the stylish but slight Down With Love, appeared to be an excellent choice for the Fantastic Four, which requires a director with a light touch who can keep the humor flowing with out letting the film descend into camp.

Fox maintains that the film will be able to make its December 2004 release date, although the studio doesn't have much time to waste since a Fantastic Four film will undoubtedly require a lot of time-consuming special effects.  Mark Frost of Twin Peaks fame is currently polishing the script.