Fantastic Four: First Steps bursts onto the screen as the most accomplished cinematic adaptation of Marvel’s first family to date, a bold claim given the rocky history of Fantastic Four films. Directed with a clear reverence for the source material, this latest iteration finally gives fans a version that feels true to the spirit of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s creation. It’s not perfect—far from it—but it stands head and shoulders above its predecessors, offering a blend of scientific wonder, family dynamics, and Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) setup that makes it a compelling, if flawed, addition to the superhero genre. For those who revel in the intersection of science and superheroics, this film is a love letter to intellectual curiosity, even if it stumbles in delivering a fully satisfying narrative.
The film dives into the origins of Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), chronicling their transformation into the Fantastic Four after a cosmic experiment goes awry. The premise is familiar, but the execution leans heavily into the team’s scientific roots, a refreshing departure from the action-heavy superhero fare that dominates the MCU. If you’re a science nerd, this movie is tailor-made for you. The screenplay is peppered with discussions of quantum physics, cosmic radiation, and interdimensional travel, presented in a way that feels accessible without being patronizing. Scenes of Reed tinkering with experimental tech or Sue analyzing data are some of the film’s highlights, capturing the essence of the Fantastic Four as explorers first and superheroes second. These moments resonate with anyone who’s ever been fascinated by the unknown, making the film a geeky delight in its best stretches.
Casting has been a hot topic since the film’s announcement, with fans skeptical about whether this ensemble could live up to the iconic characters. For the most part, the choices work, with some performances shining brighter than others. Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm is a revelation, balancing strength, intelligence, and emotional depth. Her portrayal grounds the team, making Sue the heart of the story as she navigates her new powers and her role as the group’s anchor. Joseph Quinn’s Johnny Storm is equally captivating, channeling the cocky charm of the Human Torch with a modern edge that keeps him from feeling like a caricature. Their sibling dynamic is one of the film’s strongest elements, crackling with chemistry that feels authentic and lived-in.
However, not every casting choice lands as successfully. Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm, while sympathetic, feels underdeveloped, as if the writers weren’t sure how to handle The Thing beyond his physical transformation. His arc lacks the emotional weight it deserves, leaving Ben as more of a supporting player than a fully realized member of the team. This is particularly disappointing given the character’s rich history in the comics, where his struggle with his monstrous appearance is a core part of his identity. Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards, meanwhile, is a mixed bag. Pascal brings charisma and gravitas, but he doesn’t fully embody the obsessive, almost aloof genius that defines Mr. Fantastic. There’s a warmth to his performance that, while likable, feels at odds with Reed’s cerebral nature, resulting in a portrayal that’s competent but not iconic.
One of the film’s biggest shortcomings is its surprising lack of action. For a superhero movie, Fantastic Four: First Steps is light on sequences that showcase the team’s powers in creative or thrilling ways. Johnny’s flames flicker in a few brief moments, Sue’s force fields get a couple of standout scenes, and Reed’s elasticity is underutilized, often relegated to comedic gags rather than dynamic combat. Ben’s strength is similarly underexplored, with his role in action scenes feeling repetitive and uninspired. This restraint might be a deliberate choice to focus on character and story, but it leaves the film feeling oddly subdued for a superhero blockbuster. Fans expecting dazzling displays of power will likely leave wanting more.
The Silver Surfer arc, a major component of the plot, is visually stunning, with sleek CGI that brings the cosmic herald to life. However, the storyline is painfully predictable, telegraphed so obviously you could map out its resolution before the opening credits roll. This lack of surprise undermines the stakes, making what should be a cosmic threat feel like a foregone conclusion. Even more perplexing is the portrayal of Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds. Visually, this is the best rendition of Galactus we’ve seen on the big screen, with a towering, imposing presence that captures his cosmic grandeur. Yet, the film fails to convey the existential terror he’s known for in the comics. Galactus feels strangely underpowered, his planet-devouring abilities mentioned in dialogue but never shown in their full, apocalyptic glory. Instead of witnessing him consume a world—an image that could have been a jaw-dropping cinematic moment—we’re told about his destructive capabilities secondhand, which robs the character of his mythic weight. Compounding this, the Silver Surfer poses a greater challenge to the Fantastic Four than Galactus himself, an odd narrative choice that flips the expected dynamic and diminishes the Devourer’s threat. This nerfing of Galactus’s powers feels like a missed opportunity to showcase his cosmic menace.
The heavy focus on the Silver Surfer and Galactus also ties into the film’s larger role as a setup for future MCU crossovers, particularly the introduction of Doctor Doom. This emphasis gives Fantastic Four: First Steps the unmistakable air of a filler movie, more concerned with laying groundwork for the broader franchise than telling a self-contained story. The marketing team exacerbated this issue by revealing far too much in trailers and featurettes. Major plot points, character beats, and even the resolution of key conflicts were spoiled in promotional material, leaving little room for surprise. If you watched the trailers, you likely knew most of the story’s trajectory and could guess the ending before the film even started. This overexposure turns the viewing experience into a predictable checklist of moments, sapping the narrative of its potential to captivate.
Despite these flaws, Fantastic Four: First Steps remains an enjoyable ride. It’s a perfect Saturday afternoon popcorn flick—undemanding, visually engaging, and just fun enough to keep you entertained. The retro aesthetic, with its 1960s-inspired setting, adds a unique flavor, distinguishing it from the MCU’s typical modern sheen. The film’s pacing is brisk, clocking in at just under two hours, and the lighter tone makes it an easy watch for casual audiences. However, it’s not the kind of movie you’ll find yourself revisiting. Unlike the MCU’s heavy hitters like Avengers: Endgame or Spider-Man: No Way Home, this film lacks the emotional depth or narrative ambition to warrant multiple viewings.
In the end, Fantastic Four: First Steps is a step in the right direction for a franchise that’s struggled to find its footing on the big screen. It’s a love letter to science nerds and a decent introduction to the Fantastic Four for new audiences, but it’s held back by predictable plotting, underwhelming action, and a Galactus who doesn’t live up to his cosmic reputation. The casting mostly works, with Kirby and Quinn stealing the show, but the underdeveloped Ben Grimm and slightly off-target Reed Richards keep the film from reaching its full potential. It’s a fun, flawed entry in the MCU, one that entertains but doesn’t quite soar to the heights of Marvel’s best. For fans hoping for a definitive Fantastic Four movie, this is the closest we’ve come yet, but it’s not the home run some hoped for.
Rating: 6.5/10 BSO Stars
