'Fantastic Four: First Steps' Review - A Retro Ride with Big Stakes and a Few Stumbles

Marvel's First Family is finally back on the big screen and Fantastic Four First Steps is... well, a bit of everything. With a retro 60s flair, a powerhouse cast, and some cosmic storytelling, the film boldly introduces the iconic team to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But while it gets plenty right, especially with Pedro Pascal’s standout performance as Reed Richards, it also leaves you wondering if Marvel left some of the real action on the cutting room floor.

If you are wondering whether Fantastic Four First Steps is worth the hype, the ticket, or the post-credit patience, this Fantastic Four First Steps review has you covered. Let’s break down the highs, lows, and cosmic curveballs in this long-awaited reboot.

 Fantastic Four First Steps Review

A Fantastic Cast That Nails the Vibe

Let’s start with the obvious win. The casting is spot-on. Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic delivers the kind of gravitas and charisma Reed Richards has always deserved but rarely gotten on screen. He’s smart without being smug, heroic without being hollow, and he elevates every scene he's in. You could throw him in a scene with a rubber duck and he’d make it Oscar-worthy.

The rest of the team also holds their own. There’s strong chemistry between the leads, and their interactions feel like a family unit, not a thrown-together collection of powered randos. The acting across the board is top notch, making even the slower scenes feel grounded and emotionally resonant.

That Retro 60s Aesthetic Is a Whole Vibe

One of the boldest and most refreshing choices in First Steps is the visual style. The retro 60s aesthetic isn’t just a surface-level gimmick. It’s baked into the set design, costumes, and even the tech. It’s like Marvel took a cue from Mad Men, added some Kirby Krackle, and hit us with a bold color palette that feels nostalgic and new at the same time.

For longtime fans of the comics, it’s a love letter to the era when the Fantastic Four were at their weirdest and most wonderful. For everyone else, it’s a breath of fresh air in a franchise that sometimes forgets that superheroes are supposed to be, well, fun.

Two Post Credit Scenes and One Will Blow Your Mind

Let’s not bury the lead, yes, there are two after credit scenes. The first one, the mid-credit scene, will have fans screaming. Like, actually screaming. It’s one of those “OMG" moments that opens the door to huge things in the MCU’s cosmic future. No spoilers here, but trust us, don’t leave your seat.

The final post-credit scene is more subdued and can be skipped if you have to run to the restroom, its more vibes than anything pushing the story.

Galactus Brings the Heat but Silver Surfer Deserves Better

Now, let’s talk villains. Galactus is terrifying in all the right ways. This is not a cloud. This is not a tease. This is a full-on, planet-eating cosmic threat that feels like a genuine big bad. The design is chilling, the scale is massive, and his presence looms large over every moment.

But unfortunately, his cosmic herald gets the short end of the surfboard. The Silver Surfer barely gets screen time and when she does, it feels like an afterthought. If you were hoping for a deep dive into her character or some show-stopping space action, lower those expectations. It’s more cameo than co-star.

Where Are the Fights

Here’s where First Steps stumbles. For a superhero movie and especially one introducing a brand new team, there is a surprising lack of fight scenes. And the ones we do get feel short and underwhelming. Sure, there are moments where each team member gets to flex their powers, but it feels more like a sampler platter than a full meal.

The action is stylish, sure, but it lacks the punch and payoff that Marvel fans are used to. It’s like getting a firework show where most of the fireworks never quite go off.

The Humor Misses the Mark

Marvel is known for its quippy banter and crowd-pleasing jokes. Unfortunately, Fantastic Four First Steps has zero funny, and most of the humor lands with a thud. It’s a laughless film in my opinion, but it could have used a tighter comedic script — or maybe just a few jokes to fill air. Maybe I'm just missing Tony Stark.

Final Verdict Marvel's New Beginning Is a Mixed Bag with Potential

Fantastic Four First Steps isn’t perfect, but it is ambitious. It brings style, substance, and stellar performances, especially from Pedro Pascal to a franchise that has been waiting far too long for a proper MCU debut. The retro aesthetic is charming, the stakes are cosmic, and Galactus is a welcome terror. But the film’s lack of satisfying action, lack of humor, and underused Silver Surfer hold it back from true greatness.

Still, it’s a solid foundation. This might be Marvel’s way of slowly building the Fantastic Four into key players for the next phase, and as a “first step,” it’s intriguing enough to make us want more. Just give us more fighting next time. And more Surfer. And maybe let the jokes rest.

Like this review? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s get nerdy about the Fantastic Four’s future. Or better yet, who do you want to see them square off against next?