http://www.ign.com/videos/2014/04/08/kate-mara-talks-fantastic-four-reboot
One of the earlier major warning signs.
"I don't really know much about it, but we're starting in a few weeks."
My guess is Kate Mara's agent read the script and Kate Mara saw the rest of the cast lineup and figured, "Hey, this will be cool and big for my career."
Not trying to be cruel to Kate Mara. I think she's a talented performer. There is just something so interesting about her face and aura that draws me in. Like she is almost otherworldly beautiful. However, sometimes I almost get the sense that some actors will pretty much say yes to anything. How could you not know anything about a big superhero movie you are about to do for a big studio? Here is what I don't get. You are an actor and trying to make it and ascend in the business. Maybe you want to get to a level of an Anne Hathaway or Jennifer Lawrence. Maybe not. Maybe you are trying to carve out your own niche. Maybe you are looking for a level of creative control or career trajectory. Like the power to decide whatever project you want and live comfortably in the offseason.
Now maybe Mara, despite all her time in the business, feels she's not in a good position to turn down a role like this. It's attracted enough talent that it will look good I suppose. However, I mean...is Kate Mara not in a good position to say no to this flick? Like if she says no she wouldn't get a really big opportunity again? OK, but she says yes...why not learn more about the project you signed up for? That's what I don't get. If this is your career, shouldn't actors take a more aggressive approach toward the work they are doing?