Synopsis

After a cosmic mission goes awry, four individuals — Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm — return to Earth forever changed.
Each must come to terms with newfound powers while navigating fractured relationships and growing threats beyond their understanding.
As the team struggles to find unity, a mysterious cosmic force begins to stir, forcing them to decide whether they can come together not just as heroes — but as a family.

Review

Going into this film, there was plenty of skepticism — and understandably so. With three previous Fantastic Four attempts falling flat, it was fair to wonder if director Matt Shakman could finally get it right. To my surprise, he mostly does.

The film focuses on emotional arcs rather than spectacle, giving the characters room to breathe. Vanessa Kirby stands out as Sue Storm, bringing a grounded and composed presence that holds the team together. However, the rest of the cast — including Pedro Pascal — didn’t quite feel like perfect fits. While their performances were serviceable, the chemistry didn’t always click, and at times the dynamic felt a bit uneven.

Visually, the film offers a stylish blend of retro and futuristic aesthetics, and the setting is rich and enjoyable to watch. Yet for a story that teases cosmic stakes, the presence of Galactus and Silver Surfer feels surprisingly minor. Their introduction adds some intrigue, but their limited involvement leaves a noticeable void, especially for fans hoping for more tension and scale.

Instead, the narrative leans heavily into the theme of family — sometimes to a fault. The emotional focus is admirable, but it comes at the cost of momentum. There are moments in the middle that drag, and with action kept to a minimum, the film occasionally loses steam.

Still, First Steps lives up to its name. It’s a restrained, character-driven reboot that avoids the mistakes of its predecessors. While not without flaws, it lays a solid foundation — one that could grow into something far more powerful in the chapters to come.

Popcorn Rating (🍿🍿🍿)