It's the moment Marvel fans have been waiting for – "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," directed by Matt Shakman, hit theaters on July 25, 2025.
Starring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as his wife Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as his brother-in-law Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as his best friend Ben Grimm (the Thing), the film follows the Fantastic Four as they save planet Earth from Galactus, a villainous space god who devours planets, and his herald the Silver Surfer. However, this time, the Fantastic Four family has a new member to protect — Franklin, Sue and Reed's newborn son. When Galactus demands Franklin in exchange for sparing Earth, the Fantastic Four must fight to protect both their planet and their family.
Highs
The strong relationship that bonds the Fantastic Four make it clear that they are not just superhero partners; they are a family who care deeply for one another. Their moments of funny family banter add engaging humor to the film.
The chemistry between Reed and Sue shines throughout the movie. Although "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is an action movie, it also includes beautiful, tender moments between the married couple, such as Sue telling Reed she is pregnant with Franklin and Reed holding her close and encouraging her when she later gives birth.
Ben Grimm and his gruff but caring personality is endearing, and his brotherly relationship with Johnny Storm has many humorous moments that keep you laughing.
Moreover, the movie features thrilling action scenes that are sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. For example, the immersive sound effects and well-done visuals in the scene where the Fantastic Four finally confront and defeat Galactus make the audience feel almost as if they are there beside the heroes, fighting with everything they have to keep Earth safe.
Finally, the film does a good job of humanizing Reed Richards. He may be Mr. Fantastic, the powerful superhero everyone loves, but he is also a new father who must find a way to reconcile his great love for his family with his love and care for the people of Earth. He knows the Fantastic Four must save Earth, but he cannot give up his newborn son to Galactus. Audience members can see the mental anguish and uncertainty he endures as he tries desperately to find a solution that will save both the planet and his son.
Lows
"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is unbelievable at times. For instance, after people learn that the Fantastic Four could save the Earth by giving up Franklin to Galactus, they are furious that Reed and Sue refuse to give up their son. They begin to turn on the Fantastic Four, holding protests in the streets and demanding that they give Galactus the baby so he will spare Earth. However, all of their anger immediately seems to fade away as soon as Sue gives a speech about how, while the Fantastic Four will be protecting Franklin, they will also find a way to protect Earth. While Sue's speech is heartfelt, it seems unlikely that people would immediately abandon the anger they feel toward the Fantastic Four after just hearing a few words – after all, her speech does not change the fact that there is still a hungry space god determined to destroy them all.
It would have been very interesting if the movie had given Galactus a more detailed origin story. Longtime Marvel fans are likely familiar with his origin story, but newer fans and those unfamiliar with the Marvel universe may have questions. Was Galactus always a villain? If not, how did he become one? The movie gives an origin story to the Silver Surfer, and it would be even more interesting if it included more of Galactus's origins.
"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is a thrilling superhero movie that excels at balancing heart-pounding action with heartwarming family moments. It is well worth the watch for longtime Marvel fans, newer fans, and even those who are unfamiliar with Marvel but would like to see a good movie.
Rating: 9 out of 10
Allie Beecher is the copy desk chief and a staff writer for The Eastern Echo. This is her first review.
