Jono's Review of FANTASTIC 4: FIRST STEPS

WHAT'S IT ABOUT?

In an alternate-universe to the main MCU, Marvel's "first family" faces off with the Silver Surfer and the planet-eating Galactus while navigating changes from a new baby.

IS IT ANY GOOD? (**** out of five)

They did it. They actually freaking did it. Fourth try is the charm for Hollywood to get the Fantastic Four finally right in this funny, exciting, and surprisingly touching standalone adventure that inspires and entertains in equal measure.

Following on the heels of the underrated (and underseen) THUNDERBOLTS, this is the second film in a row to suggest that Marvel may indeed be getting its groove back. From the trailers I anticipated a halfway decent adventure, but I wasn't prepared for how much character-driven fun awaited me here. I'm cautiously optimistic for the studio's future endeavors after this.

Retro-futuristic production design (comparisons to THE JETSONS are accurate), a solid script, earnest direction by WANDAVISION's Matt Shakman, and a delightful score my Michael Giacchino all combine to give this an INCREDIBLES feel, which is apropos seeing as the Fantastic Four comics inspired the Pixar film.

Pedro Pascal is, as expected, likeable, strong, and vulnerable here as Reed Richards. Joseph Quinn and Ebon-Moss Bachrach have a likable buddy dynamic as Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm, getting many of the best laughs. Ralph Ineson and Julia Garner do good work with limited material as Galactus and Silver Surfer, respectively.

But it's Vanessa Kirby who steals the show as Sue Storm. Her emotional journey gives the film its weight, her dynamics with the other players make this a family, and she emerges as a true leader alongside her character's husband. A late scene had me in tears as she brings real human emotion to a super-powered display of the strength of women and mothers everywhere.

Docking a star because the antagonists could have used more depth, but honestly doing so would have compromised the film's excellent pacing, so...

WHY IS IT RATED PG-13?

Some moderate profanity and action-violence. Very mild innuendo. Honestly, the PG-rated FF films from the early 00's were racier than this. I'd actually say this is one of Marvel's most family-friendly entries and pulls this off without compromising the stakes.

HOW CAN IT HELP?

Viewers looking for positive role models of marriage, parenting, and resolving familial conflict in healthy ways will find much to admire here. Also, this is the second film this month (after SUPERMAN) to show characters wrestling with moral dilemmas and seeking the moral high ground. The two films share a very inspiring, old-school tone.