Nutshell Review: The Fantastic Four: First Steps

PG Score: 7.5/10

The Fantastic Four: First Steps was released in theaters on 7/25/25

Fantastic Four? More like, A Very Good Four. All bad jokes aside, this movie had most of everything I wanted and did a solid job of introducing these characters. The cast chemistry was great and you felt that our heroes had a real bond. Family was the focal point of the story and the lengths they would go to protect one another. 

Cast and Visuals

Stylistically, this was a beautiful film. Combining the architecture of the 1960s with the futuristic vibe of The Jetsons, this felt like a very lived-in world that had only been enhanced by the brilliance of Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal). Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon) was the standout as Sue Storm. She was written in such a way that defied the gender roles of the 1960s, which allowed her to remain at the forefront of the story while being pregnant. Her strength was pivotal in both the bond of their family and in battle against Galactus (Ralph Ineson). 

A Standalone Story

Nothing connecting this film to the larger MCU happened and the film was better for it. It was a simple story that took the time to introduce each member of the group both as individuals and as a foursome. It was cool to see the effect they had on the world, as they were basically The Beatles of Earth 828. From cartoons to science programs, their abilities and intelligence had them at the forefront of the world in every way possible. 

Johnny and The Thing

Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things) as Johnny Storm and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) as Ben Grimm both brought a playfulness to their roles that helped counterbalance the seriousness of Reed Richards (Pascal) and the ever looming threat of the end of the world. Quinn's Storm was given more depth than previous films and being made a scientist is essential for the story told. I will also add that the use of newsreels to fill in the backstory of how they got their powers and the state of the world was a great workaround for the origin story. 

More Than Fantastic Enough

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a lot of fun and a very apt title. A small, simple story that is only the beginning of their journey in the larger MCU. Why doesn't it get higher than a 7.5? A slow buildup helps the film in world building, but hinders any early momentum. The film fails to hit a high gear even when the world-ending danger comes into play. Nevertheless, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is built for the big screen. Grab your popcorn and enjoy the ride.

PG Score: 7.5/10

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