This fan film drew controversy after private messages involving lead actor Warden Wayne and director Gavin J. Konop were leaked online. At the time the messages were written, Konop was 13 years old and Wayne was 16. Several of the leaked messages-including those suggesting crew mistreatment and criticism of others in the industry-were later revealed to be doctored, as clarified in Konop's YouTube video Addressing Everything. The VFX team, who left the project during this period, publicly defended Konop in their own video, disputing allegations of mistreatment. Both Konop and Wayne issued public apologies in response to the backlash.
Jon Watts, director of the MCU Spider-Man films and Spider-Man actor Andrew Garfield have reportedly endorsed this project and encouraged director Gavin J. Konop to continue on his work. A widely circulated "leaked message" alleging that Konop insulted Watts and his films was later proven to be doctored, as addressed in the YouTube video 'Addressing Everything'.
Allegations of mistreatment and unpaid work on Spider-Man: Lotus were directly disputed by those involved. Storyboard artists confirmed they were compensated and treated well. The film's VFX team released a group video refuting claims of mistreatment; the only dissenting artist, known as "low_res_jpg," was not supported by the rest of the team. Tuyen Powell, actress for Gwen Stacy, stated she and Konop had reconciled after the initial controversy, saying she "saw a lot of growth that really impressed [her]." Mariah Fox, mother of a biracial child actor in the film, wrote that the team "showed nothing but love" to her son and described the experience as overwhelmingly positive.
Several cast and crew members of Spider-Man: Lotus publicly described the filming experience as positive and collaborative. The film's stunt performer stated the set was "amazing" and noted that Gavin J. Konop "never acted elite... or all-knowing," but was open to input and respectful of others' roles. Producer Jacob Watson called Konop "one of the most collaborative directors [he's] ever worked with." Actor Justin Hargrove said, "[He] didn't experience racism or ignorance when [he] was on set," and characterized the situation as "pure ignorance." Moriah Brooklyn, who played Mary Jane Watson, stated that the environment on set made her feel safe and supported. She later attended the film's premiere.