Marvel finally delivers a Fantastic Four film that actually feels fantastic. Fantastic Four: First Steps is a retro-futuristic revival that doesn’t just reintroduce Marvel’s First Family; it gives them space to breathe, evolve, and connect. Set against a 1960s-inspired alternate universe, this film blends nostalgic visuals with emotional depth and a steady narrative rhythm, something the franchise desperately needed.

A World That Feels Familiar and Fresh

The film takes place in Earth 828, a version of the Marvel universe styled in mod-era futurism. The production design is vibrant and intentional. Think Kirby-esque color palettes, bubble cars, space labs with personality, and a robotic assistant, H.E.R.B.I.E., that manages to be both useful and charming. The entire setup feels like a visual love letter to the vintage cartoons and comic art of Jack Kirby, with modern polish.

A Cast That Brings the Family to Life

The casting is solid, and the chemistry is one of the film’s strongest assets.

Pedro Pascal brings warmth and intellect to Reed Richards, portraying the quiet burden of leadership with grace

Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm is the emotional center, offering quiet strength and layered vulnerability, especially through her pregnancy arc

Ebon Moss Bachrach is brilliant as Ben Grimm, giving us a grounded, soulful version of The Thing who feels more human than rock

Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, however, didn’t quite land for me

As someone who grew up on the Fantastic Four cartoons, my favorite aspect has always been the banter and humor between Johnny and Ben. It’s part of what made the original franchise feel like a real family. Unfortunately, that dynamic felt underplayed here. Joseph Quinn brings a certain energy, but the comedic timing just wasn’t there. He’s not naturally funny, and that reflected in his performance. The iconic Torch Thing rivalry that should have brought heart and levity instead felt like a missed opportunity.

Shalla Bal and the Cosmic Stakes

Matt Shakman’s direction keeps things moving efficiently. We skip past origin stories and dive straight into action. The central conflict revolves around the looming threat of Galactus (played by Ralph Ineson) and his herald, Shalla Bal, played by Julia Garner.
Now, there’s been an online debate about casting a female Silver Surfer. But it’s important to clarify: this is not Norrin Radd, the Silver Surfer many know. Shalla Bal is a different character from the comics. She’s his love interest who, in some timelines, becomes a herald of Galactus herself. That distinction matters, and Julia Garner plays her with poise and cosmic elegance.

The Soundtrack That Stands Out

Composer Michael Giacchino gives us a bold, bright score that feels like a perfect match for the visuals. His themes balance optimism and emotional intensity beautifully. If you’ve heard his work in The Incredibles, you’ll feel right at home, but this still has its own unique voice. The score elevates both the action and the quieter moments with fluidity.

Fantastic Four: First Steps is a much-needed return to form for Marvel. It’s nostalgic without being stuck in the past, sincere without being overly sentimental, and visually bold without feeling over-designed. Vanessa Kirby and Pedro Pascal carry the emotional weight of the film, and Ebon Moss Bachrach’s Ben Grimm may just be the heart of this reboot. While Joseph Quinn’s Human Torch falls short in the humor department, the overall cast still delivers a solid team dynamic.

For fans of the old cartoons, there are plenty of references and familiar rhythms to appreciate. And for newcomers, this version doesn’t get tangled in multiverse chaos or excessive backstory. It tells a focused, intimate superhero story with just the right amount of cosmic scale.

A must-watch if you’re looking for a Marvel film that’s more about heart than hype. With heart, nostalgia, and a spark of heroism, it lives up to its title almost fantastically so.