I Need The MCU’s Fantastic Four Movie To Break A Tragic Marvel Film Trend

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I desperately hope that the new “Fantastic Four: First Steps” film will help change a disheartening 20-year trend of underwhelming Marvel movies based on this beloved team. The initial “Fantastic Four” movie from 20th Century Fox was released in 2005, followed by its sequel, “The Rise of the Silver Surfer,” in 2007. There was also a controversial reboot attempt in 2015. Now, Marvel Studios is planning to revamp the Fantastic Four once more, and it seems poised to reverse this persistent pattern of lackluster performances for these particular Marvel films.

Slated for release in July, the film titled “Fantastic Four: First Steps” will feature Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, and Joseph Quinn as Johny Storm. Situated in a distinct retro-futuristic universe separate from the usual MCU narrative, this fresh take on The Fantastic Four aims to safeguard their world against cosmic threats such as Galactus and his minion, the Silver Surfer.

I am confident that the upcoming MCU’s Fantastic Four has the potential to shatter a 20-year jinx affecting the screen adaptations of this classic Marvel group.

The Fantastic Four’s Movies Have Had Less Than Stellar Reviews

Not The Greatest For Either Version

Generally speaking, the earlier films featuring the “Fantastic Four” have not been well-received by critics. This includes both adaptations of Marvel’s initial team in cinema. Regrettably, none of the “Fantastic Four” movies produced by 20th Century Fox managed to surpass a poor rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Movie Critic Score Audience Score
Fantastic Four (2005) 27% 45%
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) 37% 51%
Fantastic Four (2015) 9% 18%

Initially, the first two Fantastic Four films received mixed reviews from critics but managed to garner a modest audience approval with ratings hovering around 50%. This was due to their overly campy style and predictable storytelling, as well as some narrative flaws. However, these criticisms pale in comparison to the 2015 reboot of Fantastic Four directed by Josh Trank, a film that continues to be labeled as one of the worst comic book movies ever made since its release, even a decade later.

Why The 2005 & 2015 Fantastic Four Movies Have Had Lower Review Scores

Similar Issue (Though Both Had Great Casting)

In the Fantastic Four movies released after 2000, there was a campy style and ordinary execution, which was typical of superhero films at that time. However, the second film caused much debate due to its portrayal of Galactus, which deviated significantly from his comic book appearance, depicting him as nothing more than a large cosmic cloud. This change was disappointing and detrimental for many Marvel Comics fans, particularly during the movie’s climax.

2015’s “Fantastic Four” film, in comparison, was considerably disappointing. For instance, the second half of the movie moves at such a breakneck pace that it seems to lack any semblance of a separate artistic vision. Furthermore, the portrayal of Doctor Doom stirred up much debate, and the method used to depict The Fantastic Four’s powers, with its body-horror undertones, was also contentious. However, it must be acknowledged that the casting in all three films was generally commendable and appreciated by many viewers.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps Looks Like The Perfect Movie To Break The Fantastic Four’s Review Trend

A Unique Take With Strong Comic Accuracy

10 years since their previous endeavor, Marvel Studios is all set to restart the Fantastic Four franchise again, having obtained the rights to the original family from Fox as recently as 2019 (including the X-Men). Judging by the previews for Fantastic Four: First Footsteps, it appears that director Matt Shakman aims to recapture the spirit of discovery and awe that defines the Fantastic Four, a quality that was largely missing in the 2015 reboot, which opted instead for a more somber and tough-edged approach.

Furthermore, the hints about Galactus being the main antagonist in “First Steps” suggest an engaging and faithful adaptation to the comics. The potential to interact with Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) heroes and villains in future instalments makes this a distinctive and thrilling prospect, unlike any previous Fantastic Four adaptations. Crossing our fingers, the MCU’s “Fantastic Four: First Steps” might finally lift the curse that has hindered the First Family on the big screen for two decades.

Fantastic Four: First Steps releases in theaters on July 25th from Marvel Studios.

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2025-04-26 05:09