Marvel Confronts Fantastic Four’s Frustrating Flaw After 63 Years

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As “Fantastic Four: First Steps” approaches its theater release, Marvel is delving into the complexities of The Fantastic Four’s team dynamics, particularly focusing on the turbulent traits exhibited by the Human Torch – his tendency to cause destruction and his womanizing behavior. Although romance has been a consistent element in Johnny Storm’s character, for many years, he was not depicted as a playboy who frequently stepped over moral boundaries into distasteful actions.

In a chat with Entertainment Weekly, actor Joseph Quinn shared insights about how he portrays Johnny Storm differently compared to previous depictions and the original comics. He emphasized distancing from Johnny’s complicated romantic past, instead focusing on resurrecting the initial concept of the character. Since the late 1980s, Marvel Comics has seen a transformation in Johnny Storm’s personality from an impulsive adolescent with a hopeless romantic streak to a serial infidel whose actions, less than heroic at times, affected his family adversely.

Currently, Marvel and the Marvel Cinematic Universe are eager to revise the outdated viewpoint and reinstate Johnny Storm to his authentic comic book persona.

Marvel’s New Human Torch Actor Confirms Marvel Is Shedding Johnny Storm’s Problematic Persona

First Steps Gives The Hero A Much-Needed Revitalization

With “The Fantastic Four: Steps” joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s evident that Marvel is adopting a more traditional, nostalgic style for the film, as the legendary heroes don their original 1960s appearances and characteristics. This retro vibe is also reflected in the Human Torch, as actor Joseph Quinn, who plays Johnny Storm, discussed his take on the character with Entertainment Weekly. Unlike the mischievous, flirtatious portrayals of the human torch from the 90s to the early 2000s, Quinn wanted to explore a different side of the character. In his interview about Johnny Storm, Quinn detailed his approach:

He’s a man that leads with a lot of bravado, which can be an affront sometimes. But also he’s funny

In our conversation, Kevin Feige and I discussed past portrayals of his character and cultural shifts. He was often depicted as a womanizer and carefree, but I believe such a persona might not be appealing today. This new version of Johnny, however, is more considerate towards others’ feelings, and perhaps there’s an element of self-awareness in his attention-seeking actions.

Joseph Quinn’s thoughts about playing the Human Torch are encouraging, as he acknowledges the problem of Johnny Storm’s outdated and excessively flirtatious playboy persona. Johnny Storm is a bold and flamboyant character with a romantic streak, but the Human Torch has more dimensions beyond his numerous relationships. It seems that The Fantastic Four: First Steps emphasizes the family dynamic within the Fantastic Four, which has been absent in Johnny Storm’s character portrayal so far. This film presents an excellent opportunity to breathe new life into Johnny’s classic persona.

The Fantastic Four’s Human Torch Wasn’t Always A Playboy, But Sadly, The Label Stuck

The Human Torch’s Womanizing Attitude Has Worn Out Its Welcome

Despite popular misconceptions about his treatment of girlfriends, Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four initially had several romantic interests, but these relationships were more often portrayed as unfortunate rather than callous. In Fantastic Four #224, for instance, Johnny’s relationship with Frankie Raye (also known as Nova) faced difficulties when Frankie became Galactus’ herald, leading to their breakup and leaving Johnny devastated. Contrary to stereotypes, it was usually Johnny who sought serious relationships, but he frequently encountered heartbreak instead.

The transformation of Johnny Storm from ardent romantic to notorious playboy became more noticeable when he began dating Ben Grimm’s girlfriend, Alicia Masters, while Ben was in space. This relationship culminated in their marriage in Fantastic Four #300. However, this action didn’t reflect well on Johnny; it solidified the Human Torch’s status as a playboy within Marvel Comics, and this trait would grow increasingly problematic over time. Interestingly, it was later revealed that “Alicia” was actually an alien invader named Lyja, which complicated their relationship and introduced some troubling undertones.

Johnny Storm’s Biggest Issue Persisted Throughout His Many Adaptations

Chris Evans Turned Johnny Storm Into The Fantastic Four’s Heartthrob

By the early 2000s, the Human Torch underwent a shift in character, emphasizing his flirtatious side and making Johnny Storm’s playboy persona more prominent as a key trait for the superhero. This transformation can be observed in the 2005 adaptation of the character, The Fantastic Four, where Chris Evans brilliantly portrayed Johnny Storm as a charismatic, casual ladies’ man. On screen, his powers often put him in awkward, embarrassing situations that frequently left Johnny Storm bare-chested or completely nude.

As a movie reviewer, I must admit that Chris Evans delivers an engaging performance as Johnny Storm, perfectly encapsulating the sibling banter and slightly annoying brotherly vibe of the character. However, it’s evident that the overtly pushy and sexually charged portrayal of Johnny is a relic of its time. In both the films and comics, Johnny’s reckless behavior and flirtatious nature are frequently used for comic relief; unfortunately, this development reduces the Human Torch to a one-dimensional character. The playboy persona not only strains his family bonds but also eclipses his heroic traits, making it challenging to appreciate the full potential of this iconic character.

Johnny Storm’s Womanizing Nature Cost The Fantastic Four Peace with Doctor Doom

Marvel Highlighted Just How Reckless The Human Torch Can Be

One memorable instance of reckless flirtatiousness on Johnny Storm’s part leading to a tragic downfall for the Fantastic Four is found in issue #33 of Fantastic Four (Vol.6), written by Dan Slott and illustrated by R.B. Silva. This incident unfolds during Doctor Doom’s wedding ceremony. In anticipation of his own nuptials, Doctor Victor von Doom aimed to reconcile with Reed Richards and the Fantastic Four, inviting them as guests, in accordance with Latverian tradition which encourages forgiveness of past rivalries. However, just before Doom and his bride, Zora, were set to exchange their vows, it was revealed that she had previously spent a night with Johnny Storm the evening prior to the wedding.

In my opinion, Johnny Storm’s reckless womanizing actions, which led to a betrayal and enraged Doctor Doom, not only jeopardized any potential peace between the Fantastic Four and their long-standing adversary but also underscored the detrimental impact of his careless behavior on himself, his family, and ultimately, the world. The seemingly harmless comic flaw escalated into a significant issue within the Fantastic Four series, reaching its peak at Doctor Doom’s wedding.

Johnny Storm Is More Than Just A Hot-Headed Playboy, And Marvel Is Finally Showing It

Marvel Is Pulling Back On Human Torch’s Most Infuriating Flaw

Initially, the Human Torch wasn’t depicted as a playboy; instead, Johnny Storm filled that role as the lively and affectionate brother to Sue Storm. Though Johnny’s flamboyant personality and romantic entanglements have been key aspects of his character, he truly shines when portrayed as a hero rather than an unpredictable member of the Fantastic Four. His friendships with other heroes like Spider-Man, Reed Richards, and Ben Grimm are particularly heartwarming when his impulsive and self-centered actions take a backseat to his heroic deeds.

In the comic book series The Fantastic Four, Johnny Storm’s carefree playboy persona has been problematic and detrimental over time, overshadowing his other qualities. However, this aspect of his character is deeply ingrained in who he is. Now, Marvel Comics is gradually moving away from this outdated personality trait with their new series The Fantastic Four: First Steps, by reimagining Johnny Storm as more closely aligned with his classic persona, allowing the Fantastic Four to reconnect with their original values and identity as a superhero family.

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2025-05-03 22:12