Fantastic Four Reactions Are In: MCU Is Back?

/ Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - 12:20AM
Fantastic Four Reactions Are In: MCU Is Back?

Following the The Fantastic Four: First Steps having its Red Carpet premiere in Los Angeles on Monday night, the first batch of reactions is hitting social media.

The first reactions to Fantastic Four: First Steps are mostly positive, with critics praising its unique tone, visuals, and cast, though some stop short of calling it a home run. Many are calling it the most visually distinct Marvel movie in years, with several describing the style as “retro-futuristic” and inspired by Jack Kirby’s original comic art. Viewers also praised the IMAX presentation and Michael Giacchino’s score, calling it one of the best musical accompaniments in the MCU.

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The performances are getting strong early buzz, especially Vanessa Kirby’s take on Sue Storm, who several critics say steals the show. Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards is also singled out for a powerful third-act performance, and the family dynamic between the cast—especially Joseph Quinn’s Human Torch and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm—is being called authentic, funny, and heartfelt. One reaction even said, “We finally have a Fantastic Four movie where you care about the characters.”

Tonally, Fantastic Four is being described as different from recent MCU fare. It leans more into character drama and sci-fi than superhero spectacle, with some even calling it the most comic book–accurate Marvel film to date. Themes of family and sacrifice are central to the story, and the movie reportedly focuses more on emotion and relationships than non-stop action. One review mentioned that the film “feels like a 1960s movie in a 2025 wrapper,” and that’s meant as a compliment.

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Not all feedback is glowing, though. A few reactions noted the film may feel uneven or underdeveloped in places, with comments like “liked it, wish I loved it” and “something’s missing.” Another common note was that while the movie starts strong and looks great, the humor occasionally undercuts serious moments, and some characters didn’t get enough time to shine due to Kirby’s dominating screen presence.

Still, the overall takeaway is that Fantastic Four: First Steps is a bold, refreshing swing for Marvel, one that largely connects. Some are calling it the best MCU film since No Way Home, and others say it’s the most they’ve cared about an MCU team in years. For longtime fans, it seems this might finally be the Fantastic Four movie that gets it right.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps officially opens July 25, directed by Matt Shakman.

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About The Author

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Will is the latest addition to the Cosmic Book News team and is a comic book and film enthusiast. When not writing, Will likes to read cosmic comics.

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