Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps Rotten Tomatoes Score Is a First for the Franchise

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The fourth attempt at bringing Marvel’s First Family to the big screen, with three previous cinematic adaptations – the low-budget “The Fantastic Four” (1994) from Roger Corman’s production, the Fox-produced duology of “Fantastic Four” (2005-2007), and the poorly received reboot “Fant4stic” (2015) – finally has a fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This is the first “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, produced by Marvel Studios as part of Phase 6 of the MCU, which sets it apart.

First Steps” was highly praised when it premiered on a review site recently. It currently boasts an impressive “certified fresh” rating of 88%, which is fantastic news! This makes it the best-reviewed Fantastic Four film in over three decades, and it’s also the first time any version of the movie has received such a positive score.

In 2005, the film “Fantastic Four” was met with a 27% approval rating from critics, and its sequel in 2007, titled “F4: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” fared only slightly better with a 37% approval. The 2015 reboot of Fantastic Four received an abysmal 9% approval from critics. Although it was not officially released until 1994, bootleg copies of “The Fantastic Four” are available online and have garnered a 33% approval based on 12 reviews.

First Steps’ is the top Marvel film of the year with impressive music and funny scenes, the praise seems faint when compared to earlier Marvel productions.

Critics widely acclaimed the film’s foursome, consisting of Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (played by Pedro Pascal), Susan Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/the Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/the Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). This group is tasked with saving Earth from the threat of Galactus, a world-consuming entity (portrayed by Ralph Ineson), as well as the Silver Surfer, an otherworldly being imbued with cosmic powers (Julia Garner).

Here are some excerpts from around the internet:

USA Today: “In the movie ‘First Steps’, all four primary characters convincingly portray these superheroes who originated in comics back in 1961. Notably, Kirby delivers a standout performance by giving the story an emotional depth that anchors its fantastical elements. This version of ‘Fantastic Four’ finally manages to accurately depict its heroes, after numerous attempts. Unfortunately, the main criticism leveled at ‘First Steps’ is that it doesn’t devote enough time to the characters and their engaging world before space villains appear, causing difficult dilemmas and significant destruction. However, that’s what sequels are for – with even more action, if possible.

RogerEbert.com: “This comic book film is strong, smart, and occasionally inventive. It successfully meets the expectations of its audience (with space travels and grand-scale action scenes), but also offers additional depth, primarily through compelling and realistic acting and set designs.

In this movie adaptation of The Fantastic Four, titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” each actor shines in their respective roles. Pascal delivers a captivating performance that showcases both his classic Hollywood charm and modern sensitivity, subtly hinted at throughout the film. Kirby portrays Sue with an otherworldly grace, reflecting her dual role as a heroine and mother. Her character adds depth to the idea that a mother’s strength can transcend physical limits.

Quinn breathes a cool, mid-century charm into Johnny Storm, transforming him from a brash young man to the epitome of aloof masculinity from the era. Moss-Bachrach infuses Ben Grimm with a deep humanity, despite his rocky exterior, making him a compelling character amidst the 1960s setting. The actors perfectly embody the spirit of that decade, suggesting they are authentic reflections of their time and environment.

The upcoming Fantastic Four movie by Marvel will feature their arch-nemesis, Dr. Doom. However, the destructive pair of Galactus and Silver Surfer seem less appealing compared to them. In fact, they might even surpass Thanos, a character so powerful that only the combined forces of all Avengers could defeat him. The film, true to its title, offers a new beginning. Similar to this summer’s Superman reboot at DC, it might be exactly what is needed to rejuvenate audiences tired of superhero stories.

In a masterful blend of comedy and drama, director Shakman expertly intertwines the humor of family dynamics with the seriousness of the crisis they’re facing. As the narrative unfolds, the tension steadily escalates, culminating in Galactus’ expected arrival on Earth, crashing into the East River and rampaging through the Lower East Side, creating a deafening roar that resonates powerfully. The movie delivers an intense, immersive experience similar to IMAX. Contrary to popular belief, the action doesn’t solely drive the story; instead, it’s the heartfelt character-driven scenes that carry the narrative weight. This doesn’t mean the film lacks excitement, but the conflicts are primarily driven by the profound affection the four main characters have for each other and their shared desire to protect their world.

Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps is only in theaters July 25.

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2025-07-22 20:46