Fantastic Four: First Steps, directed by Matt Shakman, might just be the retro-futuristic reboot fans have been waiting for. Set on Earth 828, Fantastic Four has aesthetically pleasing 1960’s retro architecture, fashion and cars without the historic societal ills of the period. The film spends just enough of its 1hr 55 minute runtime recapping how a space travel accident changed the four heroes’ DNA resulting in their super powers. Viewers are settled into the team’s plush residence at the Baxter Building high rise. It’s part high tech headquarters, part MCM penthouse perfection for this family of superheroes with no work-life balance.
There’s little origin story here, but plenty of action as the team is thrust into battle against a surprising new Silver Surfer and cosmic villain Galactus, who’s intent is to devour the planet to feed his endless hunger. The casting is a win for Marvel, with great character work from the squad. There’s excellent on screen chemistry between Pedro Pascal, who masterfully embodies Reed Richards’ scientific brilliance, and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm. As heroes go, Storm gives me something I’ve been loving in film lately- the heroine who can save herself. Chic and powerful, Sue Storm is shaped perhaps a bit too much by motherhood, but she still breathes life into the Invisible Woman role, and delivers on every challenge.
Shalla-Bal (played by Julia Garner), has perhaps the most back story and inner conflict as anti-hero Silver Surfer, heralder of villain cosmic Galactus, but these were good creative choices in bringing new shine to the screen. Some of the character development does fall short, particularly for Ben Grimm/ The Thing, played by Ebon Moss-Bacharach and Joseph Quinn/ Human Torch, played by Joseph Quinn. Both are lack luster at times, but they make up for it with plenty of onscreen action, essential roles in fighting Galactus, and cool uncle vibes. Along with H.E.R.B.I.E (robot assistant and member of the team), Torch and Thing also bring in well timed humor.
Another plus of the film is the quality dialogue that doesn’t depend on one liners, like past productions of Fantastic Four. In fact, the dialogue is instrumental in delivering the strong family themes at the heart of the movie when the team is faced with challenges that threatens their family. In a few moments, though the dialogue seems to hit lulls, especially when Reed addresses the world back on earth after the Four’s first encounter with Galactus and his herald, Shalla-Bal. But that moment is the world’s first glimpse of Franklin and what stands out the most are Sue’s protective mama bear vibes.
Franklin’s larger presence in MCU doesn’t go unnoticed as, presumably, his first heroic act comes at the conclusion of the film, suggesting there is something for viewers and fans to look forward to with the character. Overall, Fantastic Four- First Steps is a fun to watch! It’s mostly faithful to the comics, delivers a cohesive plot and has strong visual appeal. Where it takes creative license is fresh, striking the right balance of action and character dynamics. I rate it (4/4) 🍿 in theaters July 25th..
