The Fantastic Four: First Steps

REVIEW:

WELCOME BACK MARVEL!

After the high-octane success of Thunderbolts, it felt like a bold claim to say the MCU was back on track—but now, after The Fantastic Four: First Steps, it’s undeniable. This isn’t just a reintroduction. It’s refreshing that this isn’t an origin story at all—the team already has their powers, and the world knows exactly who they are. What could’ve easily been another rehashed origin story we’ve seen before instead comes through loud and clear as a superhero epic with a deeply rooted emotional core—one that never forgets family is the heart of this story.

The casting is pure magic. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach share a lived-in warmth that makes you immediately buy into their bond. This isn’t just four strangers brought together by cosmic rays—it’s a unit. They tease each other, protect each other, challenge each other. And it’s in those small exchanges—Johnny and Ben playfully arguing mid-battle, Reed letting his insecurities slip in quiet conversations, or Sue acting as the emotional rock that holds the family together—that this cast shines. And the supporting players more than hold their own. Ralph Ineson, Julia Garner, and Paul Walter Hauser all deliver standout performances, each bringing energy and presence that makes every scene they’re in feel just a little more alive.

But make no mistake—this is Vanessa Kirby’s movie. Her portrayal of Sue Storm is fierce, intelligent, and layered with vulnerability. The moment she introduces Franklin to the world with that powerful line—”I will not sacrifice my son for Earth, but I will also not sacrifice the Earth for my son.”—you could feel the audience fully behind her, rooting for the team to succeed. It’s a line that encapsulates not only her character but the entire moral dilemma at the heart of the movie. In that moment, Kirby elevates this film into something more than just superhero spectacle.

Speaking of spectacle, Earth-828 is visually stunning. The retro-futuristic design inspired by 60s sci-fi pulp and infused with modern flair gives this alternate universe a visual identity unlike anything Marvel has done before. Everything from the team’s suits to the Fantasticar feels like it leapt straight off a Jack Kirby panel but updated for a new era. The movie is filled with jaw-dropping visuals—Silver Surfer streaking across hyperspace like a glimmering meteor, the collapsing geometry of the black hole evoking the grandeur of Interstellar, and entire sequences that are like watching moving concept art. Only a few uncanny CGI moments involving baby Franklin pulled me out—but they’re minor in the grand scheme.

And then there’s the score. Michael Giacchino’s music is fun, uplifting, and perfectly tuned to the rhythm of the action. It pulses with energy during the bigger sequences and gives just the right lift to the emotional ones. The main theme, in particular, is already a standout—it’s bold, hummable, and completely worthy of Marvel’s First Family. It’s no surprise that it’s quickly becoming a fan favourite and one of the most talked-about musical moments in the MCU’s recent history.

This is, without a doubt, the best Fantastic Four film ever made. It nails the spirit of the comics while daring to do something entirely its own. Galactus is done justice here—towering, cosmic, and terrifyingly unknowable—finally shedding the shadow of that infamous cloud. The film may be titled First Steps, but it feels like a giant leap for Marvel’s First Family.

That said, the ending felt a little too sudden. After such a steadily paced journey, it felt like we were building toward something more emotionally rounded before the credits rolled. It’s not a bad ending—just slightly more abrupt than expected. Fortunately, the mid-credit scene reignites excitement immediately and hints at something even bigger on the horizon. Let’s just say: Marvel isn’t done surprising us.

What makes First Steps so special is its balance. The comedy lands without interrupting serious moments. The action thrills without losing emotional clarity. And for once, Marvel doesn’t feel the need to rush or overexplain. It’s a tight 1 hour and 55 minutes, and honestly, I could’ve sat through another 30 with ease. It’s exciting, it’s beautiful, it’s emotional—and thank god Marvel finally got the rights back from Fox, because this is the Fantastic Four movie fans have been waiting for.