Marvel’s First Family has had no shortage of on-screen appearances, films depicting their story from 1994 to 2015, but 2025 and The Fantastic Four: First Steps sees their official introduction into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Going into the film, I was intrigued by the trailers and posters depicting a nostalgic 1960s New York setting and curious to see how this fifth-casting of the characters would perform under the circumstances.
As such, the story of The Fantastic Four has been reworked many times since its debut in the 1961 comic book, Fantastic Four #1. First Steps is no exception, introducing a fifth member of the family through Sue and Reed’s baby, but still pays homage to its history of comic books and cartoons throughout. The aforementioned setting, though typical to the Fantastic Four, is a new edge to the New York seen in so many Marvel projects. There is something comfortingly nostalgic about the opening act, before it delves into action.
Thanks to its outer space setting, the cinematography of the film was absolutely gorgeous. Scenes of the Silver Surfer in action are not only thrilling, but aesthetically pleasing to watch. The first look at Galactus’ humongous and imposing figure is chilling, particularly on a large cinema screen. Tension is built brilliantly, but its pay-off could feel a bit lacklustre. Plot-wise, Marvel played it safe, when it had the potential to be shocking. I have faith though, as this was but an introduction to the MCU for The Fantastic Four, that bigger risks will be taken in the future.
The main casting choices for the core four characters were crucial for this movie. Vanessa Kirby, playing Sue Storm, was the stand out of First Steps to me. She acted as the 
glue of the family, and a mother determined to protect her child at all costs. Joseph Quinn delivers the charm and cheekiness personified by Johnny Storm, as Ebon Moss-Bachrach is easily lovable as ‘The Thing.’ Pedro Pascal crosses another large franchise off the list with his simultaneous depiction of Reed Richards as a genius and a stressed new father. The family dynamic between the actors is a joy to watch, and the film heralds a strong sense of camaraderie throughout: between the family, and the people of New York.
Overall, Fantastic Four: First Steps is a pleasant introduction of Marvel’s First Family into the MCU at last. The acting performances and chemistry were what drove the film, and while the plot premise was promising, its execution could have been stronger. Next comes their integration into the rest of the Marvel gang, with the cast confirmed to star in Avengers: Doomsday in 2026. The post-credit scene excited fans up and down the cinema, including myself, assuring us that the future of the MCU is looking… fantastic.
3.5/5
Image Credits – TheMovieDB
