The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is directed by Matt Shakman, known for his work on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and WandaVision. While his direction shows flashes of creativity, it's clear he’s working under the weight of a script that doesn’t let him take full control.

Pedro Pascal, who has recently been in The Last of Us, Eddington, and The Mandalorian, feels overused and out of place as Reed Richards. He doesn't have range and plays the same character he did in all his other work.

Vanessa Kirby, known for Pieces of a Woman and the Mission: Impossible franchise, shines with both elegance and intensity as Sue Storm. Her presence elevates every scene she's in. She is written as the main character, and if you're a Fantastic Four purist, this might bother you.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach, recognizable from The Bear and Andor, delivers a passable version of The Thing, though he doesn’t quite hit the emotional beats. Joseph Quinn, breakout star of Stranger Things, steals the spotlight as Johnny Storm. His charisma and energy are spot-on for the Human Torch.

Julia Garner, best known for Ozark and recently Wolf Man, is miscast as the gender-swapped Silver Surfer. Yes, I know her character was in the comics, but it does feel pandering to choose this one over the more popular one. While the choice is bold, it doesn’t land convincingly.

The overall story struggles with tone and cohesion. Result: B

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