The upcoming Marvel film, Fantastic Four: First Steps, is generating significant buzz, with early reviews suggesting a potential return to form for Marvel Studios. Scheduled for release on July 25, 2025, the film marks the official introduction of Marvel's first family into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Initial reactions from both critics and fans have been overwhelmingly positive, particularly highlighting the chemistry between the cast members: Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm.
Many reviewers are praising the movie as a breath of fresh air for the MCU, with some going as far as to call it the best Marvel film since Endgame. Social media is abuzz with excitement, with fans expressing their delight at the on-screen dynamic of the central quartet. One user wrote, "#FantasticFour is an incredible movie... If you go into this movie with your expectations high- prepare for your mind to still be blown. It's THAT good".
A recurring theme in the early reviews is the exceptional chemistry and charisma of the main cast. The performances of Pascal and Quinn are being singled out, and Moss-Bachrach's portrayal of Ben Grimm is being lauded for bringing a strong emotional core to the film. Vanessa Kirby's performance as Sue Storm is also receiving high praise, with some calling her the "heart and soul" of the movie. One critic wrote, "the fantastic standout is Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm".
Reviewers have also noted the film's retro-futuristic 1960s setting as a unique and appealing aesthetic choice. The visuals are being described as stunning and stylish, with some even comparing aspects of the film to Interstellar. The visual effects, particularly those involving Galactus and Silver Surfer, have been described as "immaculate". The introduction of Galactus and the Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner) is also generating excitement, with many praising the scale and menace they bring to the film. One viewer commented that Galactus and Silver Surfer are "incredibly realized and bring serious stakes, something missing from recent MCU movies".
Director Matt Shakman's work is also being highlighted, with many praising his confident storytelling and ability to balance action, humor, and heart. One reviewer noted that Shakman "delivers one of Marvel's best". The film's script is also being commended, with one user describing it as "pitch-perfect" and noting that it "turns what could be a simple superhero movie into a sharp commentary on our society".
Of course, not all reviews are perfect. Some critics have pointed out that the villains aren't the most compelling, and the focus on family themes can feel a bit overdone. However, the overwhelming consensus is that the strengths of the film far outweigh its weaknesses.
Overall, early reactions to Fantastic Four: First Steps suggest that Marvel may have a major hit on its hands. The film is being praised for its strong cast, compelling story, stunning visuals, and unique tone. If these early reviews are any indication, Fantastic Four: First Steps could be the movie that finally brings Marvel back on track.
