It feels like we've been waiting for Marvel's First Family to officially join the Marvel Cinematic Universe for ages, doesn't it? Well, the wait is finally over with "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." And let me tell you, there's a whole lot of anticipation riding on this one, from introducing these iconic characters to setting the stage for what's to come.
Director Matt Shakman and the team have really leaned into a family dramedy vibe, and for the most part, it works beautifully. The film manages to juggle the anxieties of expectant parents, the weight of being world-savers, and the pressure of revitalizing a beloved franchise. It’s a lot to ask, and while it doesn't hit every single note perfectly, it certainly makes some very strong first steps.
The core of the movie, as it should be, is the Fantastic Four themselves. Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm? They absolutely nail it. There's a genuine charisma to each of them individually, and more importantly, a palpable chemistry between them. You truly believe they are a family, and that's a testament to the actors and the direction. They can shift from tackling heavy, existential questions to cracking a joke without missing a beat, and it always feels authentic to who they are.
It's particularly fun seeing Ben and Johnny interact. They have this wonderful dynamic as the world's greatest uncles, and honestly, I could have watched more of their banter. Ben, in particular, feels like he might have had even more story to tell, but what we get is chiseled down to just the right amount. Johnny, on the other hand, gets some significant moments to shine, especially with his burgeoning interest in the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner. That fiery personality really comes through.
Motivation is never in question for this group. They take their roles as Earth's protectors seriously, and you can see the pride they take in doing their jobs well. Pedro Pascal's take on Reed Richards is particularly intriguing. He captures that sense of immense potential, the character who could go in so many directions – from brilliant scientist to something a bit more... complicated. Pascal brings a nuanced performance, even if it occasionally dips into that nervous nerd stereotype, which can be both charming and a little bit flat at times.
And then there's the music. Michael Giacchino's score, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)," released on July 18, 2025, is a fantastic companion to the film. Tracks like "The Fantastic Four: First Steps Main Theme Extended Version," "Out to Launch," and "The Galactus/Silver Surfer Suite" really capture the adventurous spirit and emotional depth of the movie. It’s a score that feels both classic and fresh, perfectly complementing the retrofuturistic aesthetic of the film.
While the film does have to contend with the immense expectations of what's coming next in the MCU, especially with the looming presence of Dr. Doom, "First Steps" largely lives up to the hype. It's a solid foundation, a warm introduction to a family we've been eager to meet. It might not be a giant leap, but these are definitely good first steps.
