The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Film Review

Fantastic Four is the best superhero film of the year without competition. It delivers a wonderful adventure with the Fantastic Four family and makes you feel like you are part of that family, thanks to the beautiful dialogue and the strong bond between the team members. The film’s visual effects are among the best in Marvel’s history, and it also gives an iconic musical score for the Fantastic Four. The artistic production design is also praiseworthy, offering a unique and different vision from any previous Marvel film, leaving a distinctive visual mark. The movie also reflects the true spirit of these comic-book characters and serves as a tribute to Jack Kirby, the creator of these heroes.

The story takes place in an alternate universe separate from the main Marvel Cinematic Universe, so you don’t need to watch anything before it to understand the plot. It revolves around three main points: the origin of the Fantastic Four as Earth’s protectors and their unity as a family and a single team; the mystery behind the birth of Franklin Richards and his powers; and finally, the story of Galactus, his motives, the danger he poses to Earth, and his connection with the Silver Surfer. These three pillars form a film filled with exciting events that grip the viewer, along with tense moments that make you feel the threat of Galactus, one of Marvel’s best villains, and how the Fantastic Four confront him. The directing and storytelling were excellent, fully immersing the audience in the narrative. The performances from all the actors were outstanding, making the film’s story and moments unforgettable. Pedro Pascal portrayed Reed Richards as intelligent and brilliant, yet anxious at the same time, due to the upcoming birth of his son. Vanessa Kirby was heroic as a mother, sister, wife, and team member in the role of Sue Storm. Joseph Quinn delivered a great performance as the mischievous and funny Johnny Storm, who becomes more responsible as the story progresses. Ebon Moss-Bachrach played Ben Grimm, the family’s beloved friend, warm-hearted, and the team’s strength when needed. And we must not forget the excellent performances of Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer and Ralph Ineson as Galactus. I also loved the unexpected events throughout the story.

Despite all that, there are a few minor notes. One moment near the end of the film was stretched out more than necessary, which reduced its impact and made it feel less effective. There was also a moment involving Franklin Richards that some viewers unfamiliar with the comics may not fully understand for now, but it will become clear to them in the future. The last point is not necessarily a negative but is just an observation: the film presents Reed Richards as a smart and brilliant leader, but at the same time shows a deeply human side of him filled with tension and fear because of his son’s birth. Some viewers may overlook this layer, so it is worth highlighting.

The film contains two post-credit scenes, and the first one is very important because it sets up the events of Avengers: Doomsday, so don’t miss it. The movie offers truly wonderful heroes who will be remembered in Marvel’s history, along with a legendary and rare villain, and a story and adventure full of danger, emotional moments, and inspiring scenes that make you feel like part of the Fantastic Four family.

Rating: 8.5/10