Les Quatre Fantastiques

I really enjoyed this adventure. Keeps it clean, focused, and free of distractions.

Quickly sets the scene, introduces the team, and builds genuine charm without messy subplots or exhausting CGI battles.

It feels refreshingly like early Marvel-think Iron Man or Thor.

By the time it hints at what's next, you're fully on board.

It's confident enough not to rush things or overstuff the narrative. Sometimes less really is more, and this film gets that exactly right.

Can't wait to see these characters again when the stakes inevitably rise and the bigger Marvel universe comes knocking at the door.

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is a story about family above all else, where each member of the team is equally important. The movie excels when fleshing out the various bonds between Pedro, Vanessa, Ebon, & Joseph.

Pedro nails Reed's stoicism and dashing brilliance, while Joseph makes Johnny feel ever so valiant. But man, I can't remember the last time I adored two Marvel heroes like Ebon's Ben and Vanessa's Sue. They hold the family together and ground the others when no one else can. Silver Surfer is perfection with this metallic voice and looks really really good. Galactus is awesome in IMAX.

The combination of practical effects and CGI is...you guessed it...Fantastic...say that again! VFX were immaculate. Cosmically and on Earth, Matt Shakman dropped a visual feast. It is stunning, stylish, self-contained, and easy to jump into. I had such a good time with this one. The retrofuturism is so pleasing. The retro '60s aesthetic works on all fronts.

Marvel's first family shines with chemistry & charisma Stan Lee and Jack Kirby would be proud of. The "FF" dazzle from start to finish, Matt Shakman delivers one of Marvel's best. Michael Giacchino's score is triumphant and easily his best work in the MCU. Can't wait to watch it again tomorrow!

There are 2 credit scenes, but you already know, that you'll stay for them. Fantastic!

So, here we are again. Almost 10 years like clockwork we get a new Fantastic Four reboot (1994, 2005, 2015, 2025).

Four times they made a film, Four times I've been disappointed (though I have a little soft spot for the Tim Story films, I fully recognise they are trash).

I adore these characters. Richards, Sue, Johnny and Ben. You could argue they built Marvel.

So I'm so glad that the 5th film is GOOD.

It isn't perfect, but it was very worthwhile to watch. The visuals were brilliant, the family interactions are on point, the action is exciting and interesting. Story wobbles a little, but never enough to be convoluted or distracting. Experienced TV director Matt Shakman succeeded spectacularly in his film debut.

Pascal, Kirby, Quinn and Moss-Bachrah are the definitive Fantastic Four. Not only are they individually great, the chemistry between them is also. Kirby is a powerhouse, and we get the Sue Storm we deserve. Pascal is now positioned to be a driving force for Marvel, and the potential for Quinn and Moss-Bachrach to interact with wider Marvel is huge.

Make mine Marvel.