The Fantastic Four are another legendary group of comic book characters that have been the subject of a number of forgettable movie adaptations over the years. This time Marvel Studios finally gets to build an entire feature around them, and as expected they get things right with THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS.
This film is not set in the 1960s--instead it is set on "Earth 828", a world that appears old fashioned and advanced at the same time. The Alternate Earth concept is an easy way for Marvel to avoid explaining why the FF haven't been around for all the other movies made by the company this century--but it's also a bold and satisfying storytelling choice. I loved the entire retro futuristic aesthetic, and it enables FIRST STEPS to stand out from all the other comic book flicks that have been churned out over the last few years. The Alternate Earth setting also means that, at least for this film, there are no connections to the rest of the Marvel Mutliverse, so you don't have to worry about watching a bunch of other movies and/or TV shows before delving into this one.
Besides the unique production design, FIRST STEPS also has in its favor a story about family, which is what the Fantastic Four really are. Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm--they all interact with each other in a natural and realistic manner, and they make their characters appealing and likable. One doesn't think of them as metahumans or mutants.
Director Matt Shakman keeps the focus on the Four, as it should be, but he also makes this film into a sci-fi epic. FIRST STEPS reminded me very much of the 1960s giant Kaiju films made in Japan by Toho Studios and directed by Ishiro Honda. The delegates of dozens of nations, meeting in a large hall, discussing the fate of the world, with humanity coming together and using incredible technology to fight an overwhelming foe?? That's what happens in FIRST STEPS, but those elements can also be found in just about every Godzilla movie made in the classic era. (Galacticus, the main villain here, is basically a giant monster run amok.)
FIRST STEPS is a fun and energetic ride, and the family aspects of the plot make it relatable to everyone. It's far better than the latest SUPERMAN, and it's the type of movie that reminds one what Marvel Studios can do when they are at the top of their game.
Glad you enjoyed the movie. My local newspaper film critic also gave it a very positive review. I actually had the very first issue of The Fantastic Four comic book. That was, I think, 1962, and it cost 12 cents, or maybe it was 10 cents. My memory is a little hazy at this point. I collected quite a few of the Marvel comics, for a while anyway.
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