The Fantastic 4: First Steps

Set in a vibrant, retro-futuristic version of the 1960s, The Fantastic Four: First Steps brings Marvel’s First Family into the spotlight with a fresh, cosmic twist. This isn’t your typical superhero origin story—in fact, it skips that entirely. Instead, we meet Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn) already established as global icons and seasoned heroes. But when a planet-devouring cosmic force named Galactus (Ralph Ineson) sets his sights on Earth, the team faces their biggest challenge yet—one that tests not just their powers, but their bond as a family.

The movie leans into its 1960s aesthetic with style, blending sleek mid-century design with sci-fi spectacle. Think space-age optimism meets superhero drama. The team’s dynamic is at the heart of the film, especially with Sue and Reed expecting a child, which adds emotional depth to the high-stakes action. The arrival of the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), Galactus’s mysterious herald, adds another layer of intrigue and moral complexity.

Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe will appreciate how this film fits into the larger puzzle, kicking off Phase Six and setting up future crossovers. But even if you’re not deep into the MCU, there’s plenty to enjoy here—especially if you like your superhero stories with a dose of heart, humor, and retro flair.

The cast is a major highlight. Pascal brings brainy charm to Reed, Kirby gives Sue a powerful emotional core, Moss-Bachrach’s Thing is both tough and tender, and Quinn’s Johnny is a charismatic fireball with surprising depth. Garner’s Silver Surfer is haunting and graceful, and Ineson’s Galactus is a towering presence—literally and figuratively.

If you’re into cosmic adventures, family dynamics, and a bit of vintage sci-fi style, this one’s for you. But if you’re looking for gritty realism or a grounded, street-level superhero tale, this might not hit the mark. It’s big, bold, and unapologetically comic book-y.

With strong box office numbers and mostly positive reviews, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a solid reboot that finally gives Marvel’s First Family the treatment they deserve. And with a sequel already in the works, it looks like their journey is just getting started.