Review: ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ — A Marvelous Reintroduction With Heart and Heroism

Image courtesy of Marvel Studios (2025)

It’s finally here! After years of anticipation and previous cinematic missteps, The Fantastic Four: First Steps finally delivers the adaptation Marvel’s First Family deserves. Directed by Matt Shakman with a steady hand and clear affection for the source material, the film reintroduces Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm in a story that’s grounded in heart, family, and high-stakes heroism. I loved every second of it. Let’s dive in.

From the opening moments, it’s clear this isn’t just another origin story. The film begins with Reed Richards and Sue Storm on the night they discover—after two years of trying—that they’re finally going to have a baby. This moment is more than personal; it becomes a key element in the larger narrative. When we meet the team, they already possess their powers, allowing the story to jump straight into the action. It’s a smart choice—fans are well-acquainted with their origins, and there’s no need to retread familiar ground. Even if you are newer to the world of Marvel, you will understand this film just fine without feeling lost or overwhelmed with source material. The film still does explore how the team came to be; it does so in a refreshing way, framing their transformation through a news story with a show host that unpacks what happened—and what went wrong—without relying on tired origin tropes.

The entire cast delivers strong performances, but it’s Vanessa Kirby who truly stands out. As Sue Storm, she brings intelligence, warmth, and a quiet strength that anchors the team. Her portrayal is layered and emotionally rich, making her both the moral compass and emotional core of the group. She’s not just the Invisible Woman in name—she’s the soul of the film. Opposite her, Joseph Quinn infuses Johnny Storm with his signature charisma and kinetic energy, perfectly capturing the character’s youthful bravado. Ebon Moss-Bachrach provides the emotional heartbeat of the film as Ben Grimm. His take on The Thing is both tragic and hopeful, and his humor never comes at the expense of his vulnerability.

But the performance I was most curious about—and most impressed by—was Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards. Despite early backlash surrounding his casting, Pascal proves to be a very grounded Mr. Fantastic. His restraint works in the character’s favor, portraying Reed as a man constantly balancing his scientific genius with the growing responsibilities of fatherhood and leadership. He’s thoughtful, composed, and fully believable in the role. Together, the ensemble shares excellent chemistry, and each actor brings dimension and weight to their character. I loved every bit of their performances. The chemistry among the core four is phenomenal and was crucial to get right. This is, above all else, a film about family. Their banter, their disagreements, and their unified resolve in the face of danger feel organic. It’s that authenticity that elevates First Steps beyond standard superhero fare.

The film features two antagonists: Silver Surfer and Galactus. Julia Garner, one of my personal favorite actresses, brings a commanding presence to the Silver Surfer, owning every frame she’s in. As a character, she’s given just enough depth to feel complex and layered—a hallmark of Marvel’s stronger villains. The film invites us to empathize with her without excusing her actions, making her a compelling foil to the team. Meanwhile, the central antagonist, Galactus, is finally realized with the weight, grandeur, and menace fans have long hoped for. His presence looms large, with scenes that radiate tension and cosmic scale. But what makes this version of Galactus particularly memorable is that he doesn’t simply destroy—he judges. It’s a thoughtful, inspired interpretation that leaves a lasting impression without overshadowing the Fantastic Four’s emotional journey.

Tonally, the film walks a tightrope between lighthearted moments and mature themes. The humor, when present, is earned and character-driven. The action is inventive and well-staged, with a third-act set piece that balances personal stakes with galactic danger. And through it all, composer Michael Giacchino’s score adds grandeur without overwhelming the emotion, and is absolutely a new personal favorite Marvel score of mine.

VERDICT: In the end, The Fantastic Four: First Steps feels like a spiritual cousin to Phase One Marvel — character-driven, emotionally grounded, and building toward something greater. While it sets up threads for future installments (including the tantalizing Doomsday tease), it never loses sight of its own story. It’s not just a step — it’s a leap forward for Marvel’s First Family.

RATING

4 out of 5