Excelsior! That was Stan Lee’s signature catchphrase – one that inspired fans across generations. But while the world celebrated his legacy when he passed in 2018, few knew the darker truth behind his final years. Now, Stan Lee: The Final Chapter, a new documentary from filmmaker Jon Bolerjack, sheds light on the heartbreaking reality of how the Marvel legend was exploited in the years before his death.

Bolerjack, who was by Lee’s side for the last four years of his life, captured firsthand footage of the misery surrounding him. Despite his age, Lee was shuffled from convention to convention, signing for hours while those around him profited. Whispers of elder abuse surfaced before his death, but according to Bolerjack, the truth was far worse. The film includes accounts from comic industry legends like Mark Waid (Daredevil) and others who witnessed it all firsthand.

Perhaps the most troubling revelation? That Stan Lee – co-creator of some of the most lucrative characters in pop culture history—was in financial ruin when he died. This is the man whose creations helped Marvel films rake in over $30 billion, yet he reportedly had little to show for it. While Marvel heroes were saving the world on the big screen, the man who helped bring them to life was left unprotected.

For true believers, this documentary will be a tough watch, but an important one. Stan Lee’s legacy is amazing, incredible, and uncanny, but his final chapter was anything but. It’s time the world knows the truth.

To learn more about Stan Lee: The Final Chapter, check out the film’s official Kickstarter page. Because if there’s one thing we owe Stan, it’s making sure his real story is told.