Marvel’s “Fantastic Four: First Steps” is a breath of fresh air in the superhero genre, embracing its retro roots and delivering a visually stunning film that feels like a classic sci-fi tale. Director Matt Shakman (“WandaVision”) has taken a bold approach, eschewing the frantic pace of modern blockbusters for a more measured, thoughtful narrative.
The film is set on Earth 828, an alternate universe inspired by the Atomic Age decor of the 1950s. The cast, including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, shines in their performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The film’s themes and visuals are sleek and impactful, with a crisp, retro aesthetic that evokes Saturday morning cartoons and moralistic Greek myths.
The story follows the Fantastic Four as they deal with the consequences of being infused with special powers after being blasted by cosmic rays. Instead of relying on chaos and action, Shakman’s version focuses on self-control and gluttony, presenting a lean showdown between our modest heroes and a greedy titan.
With a talented cast, impressive visuals, and a thoughtful narrative, “Fantastic Four: First Steps” is a worthy exercise in creating something that doesn’t feel nostalgic for an era. It feels of an era, embracing its retro charm without resorting to nostalgia for the sake of it. If you’re looking for a superhero film that values emotionally credible performances and doesn’t pander to common wisdom, then this is the movie for you.
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Source: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2025-07-23/fantastic-four-first-steps-review-pedro-pascal-vanessa-kirby-joseph-quinn-ebon-moss-bachrach