As the Marvel Cinematic Universe embarks on a new journey, critics are weighing in on the much-anticipated reboot of The Fantastic Four. This article delves into the reviews and insights from various outlets.
What Critics Are Saying About ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’
The Marvel Cinematic Universe begins a new chapter this week with a reboot of one of the company’s most beloved properties, The Fantastic Four.
Cast and Crew
Starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Fantastic Four: First Steps was directed by Matt Shakman (Wandavision) and comes from a screenplay by Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer.
Plot Overview
First Steps marks the fourth attempt to translate the original comic book characters of Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ben Grimm/The Thing to the silver screen. This time, the action will take place in an alternate history/parallel universe set in the ’60s.
Critical Reception
Deadline’s Damon Wise described the film as a “satisfying and stylish Marvel adventure.” He noted that it benefits from a smart script and moving performances from its four charismatic leads, calling it arguably the best of Pedro Pascal’s releases this year.
The Guardian’s review states that the film has restored some of the MCU’s big-screen charm following a series of duds. They expressed some dissatisfaction with superhero films that end with AI cities collapsing, but acknowledged that this finale emerges from the established story premise and works well with the tone of uncomplicated fun.
Robbie Collin in The Telegraph described the reboot as “Marvel’s best film in a decade,” praising the cast for their chemistry and ability to play to their strengths.
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Forbes described the reboot as a “welcome return towards form” for Marvel, noting that it kicks off Phase Six of the MCU with style, substance, and promise, rather than relying solely on awe and scale. They praised the film’s visual style as “incredible,” highlighting the stunning 1960s aesthetic created by production designer Kasra Farahani.
Genre outlet IGN described the film as “a little nuts” and praised its ambition, but mentioned it is missing some important “capital-M Moments that superhero movies need.” They felt the film lacked emotional impact and technical heroism in its climactic events.
Gizmodo praised the film but noted it lacked some superhero pizzazz, describing it as nice and sweet but a little underwhelming.
In a four-star review for the Financial Times, Jonathan Romney concluded that “First Steps doesn’t reinvent the superhero genre, but it has its own freshness — it’s uncluttered, good-natured, and altogether good value.”
The film hits theaters on July 24.
