Review of the Film FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS: A Promising Start

Kapanlagi.com - Whether intentional or not, two superhero films were released in the same month, FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS (July 23) and SUPERMAN (July 9). Each has the same task, which is to bring something fresh amidst the rampant issue of "superhero fatigue," where audiences are tired of watching the same superhero films.

The task of FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS is quite heavy. After two reboots and the 2015 version failing commercially, Disney and Marvel Studios must prove that this new version starring Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards), Vanessa Kirby (Susan Storm), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm), and Ebon Moss Bachrach (The Thing) is a step in the right direction. Moreover, this film serves as an important bridge to seamlessly connect the storylines of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) towards the two films AVENGERS: DOOMSDAYS and SECRET WARS.

FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS focuses on the Marvel superhero family in their efforts to save Earth from Galactus (Ralph Ineson), the planet devourer. Unfortunately for Earth 828 (the parallel universe), it has been chosen by Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) as the next meal for Galactus. As if that apocalyptic threat wasn't enough, Susan, affectionately called Sue, is also heavily pregnant.

1. The Creativity of Matt Shackman

The Fantastic Four

The choice to set the story in the 60s and in a parallel Earth is a strategic move. Aside from being necessary for the story to reinforce the retro-futuristic image that was the initial branding of the Fantastic Four, this is an effort to avoid plot holes amidst the jarring narrative of the MCU. Questions like "Where were the Fantastic Four when Thanos showed up?" or "What were they doing during the Civil War?" no longer need to be worried about.

Matt Shackman also made the right choice by taking a middle ground in presenting the origin story of the Fantastic Four team. He condensed the origin story as a middle ground effort so that it doesn't end up like what John Watts did in SPIDER-MAN HOMECOMING. Matt packaged it in a 60s advertisement-style narrative as an appetizer.

For those of you who have watched the Cartoon Network series, THE JETSONS, FF carries the same visual vibe. Where the evident retro atmosphere from the fashion and lifestyle of the characters is combined with modern technology.

However, summarizing this origin story is not without risks. There are many story details that will feel "suddenly appearing" because they are needed for the film's plot. Take, for example, Reed discovering the teleportation machine or Ben The Thing suddenly being agile enough to assist in childbirth. The planting in the script is not extensive, so many "suddenly appearing" moments arise as the film progresses.

2. Four Actors Who Are Believable as a Family

Fortunately, this weakness can be offset by the chemistry of the four main characters. The love chemistry between Reed and Susan is highlighted from the very beginning of the film. Not only through the husband-and-wife dialogues exchanged between them, but also through the selection of scenes featuring the couple. Viewers who already have partners will surely feel a sense of endearment when watching Reed confusedly searching for his vitamin bottle, while Susan easily helps him find it.

Meanwhile, the chemistry among Ben, Johnny, and Herbie (the Fantastic Four's assistant robot) can be seen in their everyday scenes. For example, Johnny dipping his finger into the pot to taste the spaghetti sauce truly makes the audience feel like they are brought into the daily life of the Fantastic Four family. The banter between Ebon Moss and Joseph in their dialogues convincingly portrays them as friends with a family-like bond. It is truly surreal to see the four of them debating and helping each other while in a spaceship racing through a wormhole, as if they were on a picnic in a caravan.

3. Intimate Yet Grand

The story of the Fantastic Four is truly surreal as it collides something close (a family story) with a very futuristic backdrop (aliens, science, and space travel). Jess Hall, who has previously worked with Matt Shackman, understands this need well, allowing him to capture shots that feel intimate yet grand. There are two scenes that are cinematically crafted with great care, namely when the Fantastic Four team first encounters Galactus and of course during the climactic battle scene.

Matt and Jess have a big homework assignment to present fantastic space scenes, especially in today's era when audiences are already very familiar with such scenes. For instance, the space shots in INTERSTELLAR and GRAVITY are still vivid in the audience's minds. Moreover, the FF must exceed the expectations of fans who have already been satisfied with INFINITY WAR and ENDGAME. Through the encounter with Galactus, part of that homework has already been answered.

Matt and Jess are also fortunate with a rich choice of angles because of the character of Galactus itself. They play with top angles, low angles, and many more angles that further immerse the audience in the experience of battling a giant figure.

4. Extraterrestrial Villain 

Last but not least, the quality of a story also heavily depends on the treatment given to the villain character itself. Galactus and Silver Surfer may not be as impactful as Thanos or Loki, but both are visually captivating as "extraterrestrial" figures. Julia Gardner, as the space surfer, with her non-human expressions, is able to convey her horror when she first arrives on Earth and announces the apocalypse.

Meanwhile, the terrifying aura of Galactus is present through his very mechanical and cosmic visual details. Not to mention the heavy and intimidating voice of the actor.

5. Rating From KapanLagi.com

FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS comes as a promising first step for the MCU. Continuing the good track since THE THUNDERBOLTS. Marvel no longer promises scattered CGI action scenes but forgets that the strength of their story lies in the characters of their superheroes. In the hands of Matt Shackman, FF presents itself as a stylish, warm family superhero story, while also densely packed with action scenes. As The Thing would say, It's clobberin timeeee. A score of 8/10 is well-deserved for FANTASTIC FOUR STEPS.

In conclusion, be prepared for easter egg surprises related to Doctor Doom in this film.

(kpl/dka)