A Nostalgic Vision of the Future
Marvel’s latest Fantastic Four film, Fantastic Four: First Steps, is notable for its retro-futurist aesthetic that blends both visual design and thematic elements. The movie features flying saucer-like buildings, curved edges, robot assistants, and jet cars, all contributing to a vibrant and whimsical atmosphere. This setting isn’t just about aesthetics; it reflects an easygoing utopian vision where humanity unites against existential threats and continues its space exploration journey without interruption.
The world depicted in the film, known as Earth-828, feels like a nostalgic take on the 1960s without the real-world inconveniences of that era. It’s a place where people follow the instructions of scientists without hesitation and where global unity seems effortless. Both political sides might find something to appreciate here, with some viewers possibly mistaking it for reality.
The Fantastic Four as Benevolent Protectors
By the time we meet the Fantastic Four, they are already a powerful and beloved family of astronauts whose DNA was altered by a cosmic storm four years ago. Now, they serve as benevolent protectors of a planet that appears free from division and strife. From kids to construction workers, cops, firefighters, and ice cream vendors, everyone respects them. Politicians and opportunistic businessmen have no influence in this world, and diplomats rely on their guidance.
When the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, arrives in Times Square to announce that Earth has been marked for consumption by Galactus, a planet-eating pre-Planck Epoch pseudo-god portrayed by Ralph Ineson, the world turns to the Fantastic Four for answers. Their mission is clear: investigate the threat and save their home.
Ethical Dilemmas and Unfulfilled Potential
Despite the utopian setting, the film does touch on ethical dilemmas. When Galactus offers to spare Earth in exchange for the soon-to-be-born son of Reed Richards and Sue Storm, the parents refuse. This decision leads to public discontent, but the film doesn't delve deeply into these issues. Instead, it resolves the conflict quickly, with Mr. Fantastic reassuring the public that they will be protected. This approach leaves much to be desired, as the film could have explored these themes more thoroughly.
While First Steps has some potentially provocative ideas, it's often too cautious to explore them in depth. However, the film does demonstrate a certain patience with its characters, giving actors like Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby moments of intimacy that feel refreshing in the context of superhero films.
Performances and Action Sequences
Pascal delivers a compelling performance as Mr. Fantastic, portraying a scientist filled with anxiety about his new child and the world around him. His character sets up a system to monitor criminal organizations in New York City, highlighting his concern for both his family and humanity at large. However, the actors struggle when it comes to performing superhero actions, with their expressions not matching the physical challenges they face.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who plays the Thing, brings a unique energy to the role, though his performance is largely hidden beneath CGI and motion capture. The action sequences, on the other hand, are well-staged, marking a departure from the blandness of recent Marvel films. Director Matt Shakman blends the cartoonish nature of superhero movies with a genuine interest in space exploration, resulting in some visually appealing scenes.
The Scale of the Threat and the Future of Superhero Films
Galactus is portrayed as an impressive and intimidating figure, with his massive ship and booming voice creating a sense of awe. However, the film’s resolution feels anticlimactic, failing to match the scale of the threat established earlier. This outcome highlights the limitations of the superhero genre, where nothing is ever truly destroyed or concluded, and the focus remains on passing the baton to future stories.
In today’s cinematic landscape, Marvel’s influence is undeniable. The company has reshaped the industry over the past decade, making its films feel like an existential threat to the medium itself. Recent films like Captain America: Brave New World have left critics questioning their quality, raising concerns about what might happen if the superhero industry collapses.
A Brief Reprieve in a Changing Landscape
In this context, Fantastic Four: First Steps feels like a welcome reprieve. While uneven, it is light and free from unnecessary backstory, making it accessible to audiences without requiring prior knowledge. Setting the film in a half-imagined past allows it to avoid the baggage associated with modern Marvel movies. Though it may not last, the film offers a glimpse into a world where studio executives, like the heroes they portray, seem to have our best interests at heart.
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