My thoughts on the Fantastic Four movies have always been a bit polarizing. I liked the 2007 sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, and I really enjoyed the darker 2015 take. I know some of you might be clicking away after that, but hear me out. I’m not saying either film was perfect—they had flaws. So hopefully, your pitchforks are now on the ground. Marvel Studios is back again with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, this time aiming to recapture the majesty of the comics in a pseudo-futuristic setting that blends the ’60s with modern sci-fi. Directed by Matt Shakman (WandaVision), my hopes were high that this would finally be the film the Fantastic Four deserve. So—did Marvel succeed? Let’s find out in my review of The Fantastic Four: First Steps!

Story

The movie jumps right into things with no long-winded origin story. Through a TV interview, we’re quickly caught up: the four astronauts went into space, were hit with cosmic radiation, and now use their new powers to protect Earth. The family is already beloved by the public—and they’re about to grow, with Sue Storm pregnant. But a new cosmic threat looms as an alien visitor warns of Earth’s impending doom.

The main threat? Galactus, accompanied by a female version of the Silver Surfer. While this might sound like a repeat of the 2007 film, it’s not. The execution is different, and without giving too much away, Galactus offers a moral dilemma that puts the family to the test. It’s a simple but effective plot, and it works well to reestablish the franchise. Plus, the mid-credits scene confirms that the team will return in Avengers: Doomsday.

Acting and Cast

The casting this time around is a mixed bag, but mostly solid. Pedro Pascal delivers a strong performance as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, perfectly capturing his intelligence and detachment. Vanessa Kirby absolutely shines as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, balancing strength and vulnerability with ease.

However, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing felt a bit off. Quinn’s Torch is portrayed as unusually intellectual, and Ben Grimm’s emotional arc doesn’t hit as hard as it should. Both are capable actors, but the writing underuses them.

That said, Julia Garner (Silver Surfer) and Ralph Ineson (Galactus) steal every scene they’re in. Garner’s performance is haunting and graceful, and Ineson’s deep voice and ominous delivery make Galactus a truly intimidating villain.

Cinematography and Direction

This is where the movie truly excels. Matt Shakman’s direction is top-notch. Visually, the film is stunning. A mid-movie sequence where the team escapes from the Silver Surfer through a wormhole is absolutely jaw-dropping. Galactus looks powerful and otherworldly—thankfully far from his 2007 cloud incarnation. The final showdown between the Four and Galactus is a highlight and showcases just how far this franchise has come.

Conclusion

With a run time of just under two hours, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fun, smartly directed film that finally gives Marvel’s First Family the cinematic treatment they deserve. It’s not flawless—there’s room to improve—but this is a huge step in the right direction. The visuals, the chemistry, and the story all feel more in line with what fans have been asking for. Bring on the sequel, Marvel—I think this family has finally found its place in the MCU.

ーAaron