In the straightforward, down-to-earth style of The Fantastic Four: First Steps , it’s evident that Marvel has taken crucial lessons from its past box office flops. The film exudes a comforting return to fundamentals, as it chooses to focus more on character development rather than the excessive CG action sequences that often dominate superhero movies. This shift allows viewers to connect with genuine characters rather than just spectacle. Additionally, Marvel has opted to make this story self-contained, eliminating the need for prior knowledge about a complex multiverse that has been extensively explored in numerous films and series. This move could help combat the feeling of genre exhaustion that might have arisen from an overabundance of content.
In the end credits, there’s a quote from Jack Kirby, co-creator of the 1961 comic book series with Stan Lee: “In my characters, you will find me. Regardless of the character you create or portray, a piece of yourself always remains.” It seems that Director Matt Shakman and screenwriters Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer have embraced this philosophy. The titular group, while possessing superpowers, are also a family, grappling with the challenging duties life presents, much like many of us.
Spanning numerous issues, The Fantastic Four comics have achieved widespread acclaim. However, when it comes to film adaptations, the series hasn’t made a significant impact as a cinematic vehicle. The 2015 reboot, which aimed for a grittier take on the property, unfortunately fell flat and was generally considered worse than the average 2005 movie and its subsequent sequel. In these films, the cast seemed to lack the comfortable chemistry of characters who’ve known each other for years, even though they were supposedly long-time teammates.
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The Fantastic Four comics have been a hit with readers for years. But when it comes to movies, the series hasn’t left a lasting impression as a successful screen vehicle. The 2015 reboot, which attempted to give the property a gritty makeover, was widely panned and even surpassed in quality by the mediocre 2005 movie and its sequel that followed. In these films, the cast didn’t show the natural camaraderie you’d expect from long-time teammates, despite supposedly having worked together for years.
As a gamer, I’ve got a soft spot for some classic shows, and one of those is the hilarious Arrested Development from 2013. Two episodes were all about a mock musical that mimicked a movie never released back in 1994 – you might recognize it as it had some cameos from Roger Corman’s stars. For me and many others who aren’t comic book enthusiasts, our love for The Fantastic Four comes from way back when, to the 1967 Hanna-Barbera cartoon series that aired on ABC for only 20 episodes. Yet, it kept reappearing in reruns over the years.
In a similar vein, the filmmakers have crafted “First Steps” with a charming 1960s retro-futuristic aesthetic, mirrored in Michael Giachhino’s energetic orchestral soundtrack, as well as Kasra Farahani’s set design and Alexandra Byrne’s costumes. The depiction of New York City during the comics’ origins offers a captivating visual appeal, ranging from Times Square to the Lower East Side. Notably, humorous product placements for brands like 7Up and Canada Dry can be spotted throughout this era-specific setting.
The vintage-style origins tales were showcased during a special ABC event commemorating the fourth anniversary of the Fantastic Four, which was hosted by the charmingly square Ted Gilbert, played by Mark Gatiss.
In this account, scientific prodigy Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal) embarked on a space voyage alongside his spouse Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), her sibling Johnny (Joseph Quinn), and their trusted companion Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). During their journey, they encountered a cosmic tempest that transformed their genetic makeup upon their return to Earth, bestowing them with extraordinary abilities. In the case of Ben, this transformation resulted in a drastic change in his physical appearance.
Reed exhibits elastic, flexible limbs, much like a rubber band, while Sue possesses the ability to make herself invisible and create potent forcefields and bursts of energy. Johnny, often referred to as the Human Torch, is a self-assured young man with an oversized demeanor who can encase himself in flames and fly. Lastly, Ben transforms into a colossal, rock-like figure with strength beyond human capabilities.
The remarkable feats they’ve displayed in disaster response and peacekeeping, as evidenced by fuzzy news clips where they foiled the Mole Man (Paul Walter Hauser)’s plan to demolish the Pan Am building, have catapulted the Fantastic Four into the limelight as media favorites and cherished planetary protectors.
Translating Moss-Bachrach, an actor with magnetic charm, into a rock monster-like character using motion-capture technology could appear as a restrictive decision. However, it’s astonishing how he imbues the role with warmth and sensitivity – even earning the name The Thing in comics. Despite his stone-like visage and muscular physique, he is the most emotionally exposed among the group, his sorrowful eyes suggesting his deep-seated belief that he will never know love. This vulnerability is particularly evident during Ben’s interactions with Rachel, a kind elementary school teacher from his past, portrayed by Natasha Lyonne, who, though underutilized, brings a unique charm to the role.
The other individuals in the group are described using terms typically associated with humans, regardless of their extraordinary talents. Reed, for instance, is a brilliant inventor who frequently struggles to convey his emotions but excels in mathematical reasoning. Sue, on the other hand, is strong-willed and assertive, serving as a symbolic leader within this unconventional family. Johnny is impulsive and enjoys seeking thrills, yearning for acceptance from the others and perhaps feeling slightly self-conscious about being perceived as childish. (At times, Quinn bears a striking resemblance to a young Robert Downey Jr., albeit with blonde hair.)
In their ordinary attire, not the iconic blue-and-white spacesuits, Byrne dresses each of them according to their unique personalities. Reed prefers academic cardigans and ties, Sue leans towards sleek turtlenecks and fitted skirts (with a Pucci bathrobe in her private quarters), Ben adopts the casual style of sweater vests and plaid shirts, and Johnny’s denim jacket and beige jeans could boost Levi’s sales.
In this film, the actors’ performances and chemistry are so captivating that the scenes set in their luxurious Baxter Building penthouse, featuring a domestic robot reminiscent of Rosie from The Jetsons crossed with Number 5 from John Badham’s Short Circuit, stand out as particularly charming. The bond between the characters is further strengthened when it is revealed early on that after years of failed attempts, Sue has become pregnant, creating an unexpected twist in their dynamic.
The situation that compels them to abandon their home and return to space is signaled by the appearance of Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer, warning Earth’s inhabitants that their planet is imminently threatened for destruction by a cosmic being called Galactus. “Your world will be devoured by the Devourer,” she declares, showing no emotion whatsoever.
As a female Silver Surfer, I cut an imposing figure in my sleek, metallic CG armor. My demeanor is cold and aloof, yet my combat skills are unmatched, rivaled only by my blinding speed. But beneath the icy exterior lies a vulnerability that Johnny Storm gradually unearths, revealing a tragic past in the final act. Until then, I serve as the relentless enforcer for Galactus (Ralph Ineson).
When Reed discovers that the Silver Surfer’s trail leads to a series of planets that have been wiped out, the Fantastic Four embark on their spaceship. Despite Sue being close to her due date, they decide it’s wiser to pursue their enemy rather than wait for Earth’s destruction. However, their effort to reason with Galactus – an ancient colossal figure resembling a giant iron man encased in a rusty tin-can shell adorned with nuts and bolts – breaks down when he suggests sparing Earth if they give him the child Sue is carrying.
As a gamer, I’m caught up in the thrill as our team makes a chilling comeback to New York City, with the enigmatic Silver Surfer hot on our heels. To add to the drama, Sue and Reed welcome their son, Franklin, into the world during a mind-boggling zero gravity leap at light speed. The future looks tense as Galactus firmly believes that only our little one can claim his throne and relieve him of his unquenchable desire to devour planets. Yet, all the tests conducted by Reed suggest that Franklin is just an ordinary baby, casting a shadow of uncertainty over whether he’ll develop superpowers or not.
Shakman masterfully blends the comedic elements of family interactions with the somberness of their pressing predicament, gradually increasing the tension as the narrative progresses towards Galactus’ imminent arrival on Earth. As he plummets from the sky into the East River and marches through the Lower East Side, his thunderous footsteps resonate powerfully, piercing you deeply. (The film delivers a raw, impactful experience reminiscent of IMAX.)
Instead of building the story around action sequences, the filmmakers relied on emotionally impactful character moments to drive the narrative. This doesn’t mean the movie lacks excitement, quite the contrary; the conflicts arise from the profound love the four main characters have for each other and their shared duty to protect their world.
The central idea in this piece emphasizes family, symbolizing resilience and optimism, is vividly portrayed by Kirby as Sue speaks passionately to the crowd following their decision not to sacrifice a child to save the planet, which led to unfavorable public opinion. Additionally, a poignant scene between Sue and Reed towards the end, powerfully acted with intense emotion by Pascal, leaves an indelible impact. However, this film does not lend itself easily to identifying a standout performer among the main characters. Instead, each of the four leads adds a unique charm to their characters, creating a harmonious blend that makes every one of them crucial to the group’s dynamic and overall success.
As a diehard fan of midcentury modern style, I can’t help but be captivated by the exquisite design aspects that this place boasts. The living quarters of the Fantastic 4 in particular are a delightful explosion of detail and decorative choices, blending an irresistible mix of kitschy and cool elements. From the swivel stools at the breakfast bar to the lamps scattered about, and not forgetting the stunning wall-recessed liquor bar on the mezzanine in the living room, every corner is a testament to design from the 1950s and ’60s.
While Shakman skillfully incorporated 1950s and ’60s aesthetics in the Disney+ series WandaVision, this period vibe harks back more directly to X-Men: First Class. Yet, it’s not just fun – it manages to steer clear of being overtly campy.
In “First Steps,” the CGI work is smooth, as anticipated, but what truly makes it feel like a genuinely inhabited world is the flawless blend of digital components with real-life set structures. It’s not just actors in front of green screens; it’s an immersive experience. The movie’s vibrant and energetic space sequences give off a nostalgic, analog vibe that harks back to a simpler time, which I found appealing.
Stay till the end of the credits for a mandatory sneak peek at future events and a light-hearted tribute to a past version. A tagline indicates: “The Fantastic Four will appear in Avengers: Doomsday.” However, I’m eagerly anticipating that this charming family group might get another chance to star in their own series once more.
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2025-07-22 18:55