If anyone’s still counting, The Fantastic Four: First steps begins the sixth phase of Marvels cinematic universe, introducing the ‘first family’ of comic books into proceedings.
While this is the third attempt to bring these popular characters to the big screen, Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox means it’s the first time they’ve featured in the official MCU.
Matt Shakman, who oversaw the WandaVision TV show for Marvel, took on directing duties after Spider-Man director Jon Watts stepped away due to superhero burn out. Predominately a TV director, this is only Shakman’s second ever feature film, but on this evidence Marvel head honcho Kevin Feige will be keen to get the filmmaker back for more.
Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby star as Reed Richards and Sue Storm, married scientists / astronauts, who it’s revealed early on are expecting their first child. Along with Sue’s brother Jonny and Reed’s best friend Ben, the four were enhanced with amazing abilities during a space mission, becoming the world famous Fantastic Four. However, when Julia Garner’s Silver surfer arrives on earth heralding the arrival of her planet consuming master Galactus, the FF must put aside their prenatal concerns to save their world from destruction.
Set away from the main timeline (for the time being) in a beautifully realised 60’s inspired retro-futuristic world, the film is refreshingly stand alone and unencumbered by what’s come before. As a result, it’s arguably the most accessible MCU film in years. While the lack of interlocking narrative may disappoint some diehards, it’s nice to be able to get to know the characters more intimately before they’re inevitably thrown into the avengers mix next year.
Shakman and his team of writers (5 are credited) cleverly skip through the groups well known origin by way of a Television tribute hosted by Mark Gatiss’s Ed Sullivan-esque chat show host, and successfully introduce the team as a fully-rounded family unit.
Pascal’s portrayal of Richard’s as a brilliant but socially awkward team leader is note perfect, while Kirby shines as the family’s devoted and protective mother figure, even before the birth of her baby.
Seen as a cocksure flyboy in previous iterations, Stranger things actor Joseph Quinn is more restrained in his performance as Johnny Storm (AKA The Human Torch) which is in keeping with the films tone, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach brings an endearing charm to the team’s enforcer Ben Grimm, AKA the Thing.
Michael Giacchino’s wonderfully memorable theme completes the vibe, alongside retro robot servant H.E.R.B.I.E who’s 60’s style and tape recorder eyes are another visual treat.
There’s no shortage of action, but Shakman doesn’t let it consume the narrative, allowing his cast the room to develop their characters and build their strong family bond. Something that is a mainstay of the FF comic books.
Despite some rather familiar world ending stakes, First Steps has a relatively simple, and easy to follow plot, and it’s lightly comedic tone is perfectly judged, but it’s the films wholehearted sincerity that is most refreshing.
Fantastic Four: First Steps delivers exciting new characters fans can get behind and a film that puts the MCU firmly back on track.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paul Steward
02/08/25
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