Before the emergence of iconic characters like Spider-Man, Hulk, Deadpool, and the complex narratives of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, there was one pivotal group that laid the foundation for superhero comics: the Fantastic Four. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the Fantastic Four's debut in November 1961 marked the beginning of what enthusiasts call the Marvel Age. This initial publication set the stage for a transformative era in comic book history.
The premise of the Fantastic Four is straightforward yet compelling: four astronauts venture into space, returning with extraordinary superpowers. What sets them apart from other superhero teams is their familial bond; they not only battle evil together but also navigate personal conflicts, making them relatable and human. This unique dynamic marked a significant shift in the portrayal of superheroes, giving rise to a new narrative style.
Despite being considered Marvel's first family, the Fantastic Four has faced numerous challenges in cinematic adaptations. A convoluted rights saga has hampered their ability to shine on the big screen, leading to a series of unsuccessful franchise attempts. To date, there have been three (technically four) iterations of the Fantastic Four, none of which have fully captured their essence. However, the latest film, Fantastic Four: First Steps, aims to change that narrative and is touted as the best adaptation yet.
This film features the classic lineup: Mr. Fantastic, The Invisible Woman, The Human Torch, and The Thing. While the film clears a low bar set by its predecessors, it presents an impressive world-building experience. Audiences will be captivated by the vibrant New York City setting, the cosmic environments reminiscent of Kirby's artwork, and the fidelity to the series' early issues, all brought to life by director Matt Shakman and his team.
One of the most inspired decisions in First Steps is its setting in a 1960s aesthetic, directly echoing the original Kirby-Lee run. Longtime fans will appreciate the meticulous recreation of iconic covers and the overall Silver Age vibe. This unique visual style distinguishes the film from the broader MCU, offering a fresh take on the superhero genre. Shakman's previous work on WandaVision showcases his ability to recreate distinct eras, making him a perfect fit for this retro-themed project.
In this alternate universe, the Fantastic Four are the sole superheroes, allowing their origin story to unfold through cleverly crafted clips reminiscent of the Apollo 11 prelaunch. This narrative choice establishes their status as beloved public figures, setting the stage for their heroic escapades.
As the story progresses, the Fantastic Four are four years into their heroic journey when they face a dual crisis: Reed and Sue are expecting a child, and a mysterious figure from the sky, Shalla-Bal (played by Julia Garner), arrives with dire news. Known in the comics as the Silver Surfer, she serves as a herald for Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson), a colossal being who threatens to consume Earth. This narrative arc, known as the Galactus Trilogy, encapsulates the essence of the Fantastic Four comics by blending cosmic threats with deeply personal stakes.
Galactus offers an ultimatum: surrender Reed and Sue's unborn child, whom he perceives as a being of infinite power, or face the annihilation of Earth. This moral dilemma underscores the team's dedication to protecting their family, even at the cost of global safety, showcasing the emotional depth that has always been a hallmark of the Fantastic Four saga.
While the film boasts a stellar cast, including Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, it struggles to capture the essence of their relationships. Despite the engaging performances, the film often prioritizes action and visual spectacle over character development. The dynamic that fans have come to love appears diluted, as the heroes' interactions feel rushed and overshadowed by the film’s ambitious world-building.
While the aesthetic and action sequences are visually stunning, they often eclipse the characters themselves. The narrative's rapid pace leaves little room for the rich interpersonal dynamics that define the Fantastic Four. Viewers may find themselves more enamored with the film's aesthetic than its character-driven moments, leading to a sense of disconnect from the heroes.
As the film concludes, audiences are left with a sense of anticipation for future adventures. The closing scenes hint at greater challenges ahead, setting the stage for a more profound integration of the Fantastic Four into the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe. While First Steps serves as a commendable introduction, it remains a work in progress, paving the way for the Fantastic Four to eventually become integral to the MCU's overarching narrative.
In summary, while Fantastic Four: First Steps marks a significant step forward for Marvel's first family, it simultaneously highlights the challenges of adapting such beloved characters. The film's rich visuals and nostalgic nods to the source material offer hope for a brighter future for the Fantastic Four within the cinematic landscape.
