Insights Gained from Prior Versions: The Fantastic Four's Early Lessons Unveiled
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is about to welcome a new addition, as "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" prepares to hit the big screen on July 18. This fourth instalment of the Fantastic Four franchise takes a distinct approach from its predecessors, offering a fresher, more comic-accurate, and emotionally resonant take on Marvel's first family.
Set in the 1960s, as a homage to the comic book origins of the characters, "First Steps" deviates from previous films in terms of setting, villain, and character portrayals. Unlike earlier movies that retold the classic origin story or featured Doctor Doom as the primary villain, this film takes a bold step by introducing Galactus and Silver Surfer as the primary antagonists, with no Doctor Doom villain role. This deliberate move allows for a focus on the core family dynamic of the Fantastic Four rather than giving too much screen time to a traditionally dominant villain.
In terms of setting and narrative structure, "First Steps" begins after the Fantastic Four already have their powers and are established heroes. The movie opens with Reed Richards casually picking up his costume, indicating this is a world where their status as superheroes is well known. The film uses a clever narrative device—a televised ABC special—to quickly recap their origin and abilities, allowing the story to "hit the ground running."
Regarding character portrayal, "First Steps" emphasizes the family element of the Fantastic Four more than past films. The film is described as a heartfelt reintroduction that celebrates the team as a close-knit family fighting for their future, particularly spotlighting Sue Storm's pregnancy and the group's life as a unit. This focus contrasts with earlier movies that sometimes treated the team more as a superhero ensemble with less emphasis on interpersonal family dynamics.
The characters from "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" will carry over their story into the movie "Avengers: Doomsday." Johnny Storm, a character in "First Steps," is played by Joseph Quinn. Interestingly, this version of Johnny Storm is less callous with other people's feelings, a departure from earlier portrayals. This self-awareness about what's driving attention-seeking behavior is a key aspect of this new take on the character.
Doctor Doom, a classic villain of the Fantastic Four, is played by Robert Downey Jr. in "Avengers: Doomsday." Galactus, the main villain in "First Steps," is played by Ralph Ineson.
"First Steps" is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and new images of the film can be found on EW. The film's director, Matt Shakman, stated that not doing an origin story and Doom allows for a fresh perspective, resulting in a movie that offers something new for both longtime fans and new audiences.
Technology and entertainment platforms like io9 and Gizmodo have been abuzz about the upcoming Marvel movie, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," set to release on July 18. The film breaks away from the norm by introducing Galactus and Silver Surfer as primary antagonists, deviating from the traditional Doctor Doom villain role. In the future, fans can expect to see characters from "First Steps" in "Avengers: Doomsday," with Joseph Quinn playing Johnny Storm, a version of the character who is less callous compared to his earlier portrayals.
