A New Beginning for the Fantastic Four
It's time we saw a good Fantastic Four movie. Since their debut in November 1961’s The Fantastic Four #1, Marvel's most iconic quartet has been a cornerstone of the publisher's legacy. However, bringing them to life on the big screen has proven to be a daunting challenge. The 2000s films, which tried to capitalize on the success of Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy, were met with mixed reactions due to their odd structure and tonal inconsistencies. A 2015 reboot, despite a stellar cast including Miles Teller and Michael B. Jordan, was a complete disaster.
This is not a situation that many other intellectual properties would endure. Imagine if the 2021 Dune film had flopped after David Lynch’s 1984 version failed, and then another attempt also failed, followed by yet another. That’s the kind of perseverance the Fantastic Four have experienced over the years.
When Marvel Studios reacquired the rights to the Fantastic Four as part of the 2019 20th Century Fox merger, it seemed inevitable that they would eventually integrate the characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). There was a mix of cautious optimism—after all, this had been a tough nut to crack, but the MCU was at its peak with the release of Avengers: Endgame.
However, it took over six years to bring the Fantastic Four to the big screen, and the landscape of the MCU has evolved significantly. While initial confidence may have waned, the cast—Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm—brought a lot of energy to the project. Despite the skepticism surrounding whether the 2025 iteration could succeed where others had failed, the film The Fantastic Four: First Steps managed to deliver a solid performance.
A Fresh Start
First Steps marks a shift for Marvel, moving away from the self-referential world-building that once defined the studio. While it sets up for next year's Avengers: Doomsday, it exists in its own universe, Earth-828, separate from all previous Marvel stories. This means there's no need for prior knowledge before watching the film.
The story is straightforward: After an accident in space, four individuals gain superpowers. Reed can stretch, Sue becomes invisible and creates forcefields, Johnny generates fire and flies, and Ben turns into a rock-like giant. Their bond as a family is central to the film, emphasizing the importance of their relationships.
The conflict is simple: Shalla-Bal, also known as the Silver Surfer, arrives to warn Earth that Galactus, a cosmic entity, plans to consume the planet. The Fantastic Four must stop him. This simplicity contrasts with the complex narratives of recent superhero films, offering a refreshing take on the genre.
Character Development and Setting
Where First Steps lacks in plot, it excels in character development. Each member of the team is given depth, with performances that feel vibrant and authentic. Joseph Quinn’s portrayal of Johnny Storm stands out, balancing the cocky charm of previous versions with his own unique flair.
The 1960s setting is a major highlight, allowing the actors to explore different aspects of their characters. Director Matt Shakman, known for his work on television, brings a fresh visual style and smart storytelling to the film. His use of the retro-futuristic score by Michael Giacchino adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.
Julia Garner’s performance as Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer is a standout, adding urgency to the action sequences. Her portrayal is more effective than in previous films, enhancing the tension and stakes of the story.
The Cosmic Threat
Ralph Ineson delivers a powerful performance as Galactus, bringing a commanding presence and a deep voice that fits the character perfectly. While his motivations are somewhat vague, the film effectively conveys the scale and threat of his character. The audience feels the weight of his actions, even if more details may come in future installments.
Supporting characters like Paul Walter Hauser as Mole Man add humor and depth, though Natasha Lyonne’s role is underutilized. Despite this, the film succeeds in introducing the Fantastic Four as a compelling group, potentially becoming the heart of future MCU events.
Looking Ahead
As the story continues in Avengers: Doomsday, which is set for a 2026 release, First Steps serves as a strong foundation. It offers a fun, engaging experience that sets the stage for future adventures. With its focus on character and simplicity, the film proves that the Fantastic Four can finally find their place in the Marvel universe.
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