The initial installation of The Fantastic Four, titled "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," surpasses the second film, "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" in quality.
\ In the latest cinematic adaptation of the Fantastic Four, titled First Steps, the character of Johnny Storm, also known as the Human Torch, has undergone a significant transformation. Played by Joseph Quinn, the 2025 portrayal of Johnny emphasizes a young, brash, and impulsive character who embodies youthful confidence and swagger.
Compared to the 2007 version of Johnny Storm, played by Chris Evans in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, the 2025 version is more self-aware as a celebrity hero. His impulsiveness is balanced with responsibility and team maturity, making him a more integral part of the established and mature team facing cosmic threats.
The 2025 film presents Johnny's iconic catchphrase, "Flame on," as a confident, stylish statement reflecting his identity and attitude. In contrast, the 2007 film linked "Flame on" more to youthful bravado and showmanship.
While the 2007 film portrayed Johnny as a cocky, fun-loving, and somewhat immature young hero with a rebellious and flirtatious personality, the 2025 film shows less focus on romantic entanglements or womanizing traits. Instead, Johnny's character development is rooted more in celebrity culture and youthful swagger.
First Steps also excels in making Galactus a legitimate character, contrasting with the planet-devouring cloud in Rise of the Silver Surfer. The film features improved CGI for Julia Garner's Silver Surfer, better displaying her character's expressions and emotions. Ralph Ineson's portrayal of Galactus wears a comic-accurate costume and towers over cities.
The film also includes witty banter among the Fantastic Four characters, making them sound like a real family, and scenes that depict the struggles of running a baby-friendly household, resembling classic sitcoms. Julia Garner's portrayal of Shalla-Bal, the Silver Surfer, shows a more intriguing relationship with Johnny Storm, and her character is given a more understandable decision to help the heroes stop Galactus.
In a climactic moment, Johnny Storm sacrifices himself nearly to stop Galactus and save his nephew, Franklin, demonstrating intelligence by translating the Silver Surfer's language. First Steps stands as the best Fantastic Four movie, thanks to its gripping conflict, more developed characters, and faithfulness to the source material.
First Steps is currently in theaters, and H.E.R.B.I.E. will be voiced by a Star Wars actor, although the specific actor remains undisclosed. Fans of the Fantastic Four should not miss this long-awaited sequel to Rise of the Silver Surfer.**
Movies-and-TV have evolved significantly in the depiction of the Fantastic Four characters, particularly Johnny Storm, who represents entertainment as well. In First Steps, Johnny's character growth focuses more on celebrity culture and mature team dynamics, as opposed to the romantic and womanizing traits seen in the 2007 version.
The 2025 movie offers a unique blend of entertainment and visually stunning portrayals, showcasing improved special effects and better-developed characters, making it a must-watch for fans of the superhero genre and movies-and-TV alike.
