The Fantastic Four: First Steps is the 37th movie to be released in theaters in the billion-dollar Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise, and it comes at a somewhat depressing time.  In recent years, Marvel has found it difficult to replicate the success of their first wave of movies, which culminated in the 2019 Avengers: Endgame installment of the Infinity Saga series. 
Matt Shakman of WandaVision directed the film, which has a fairly straightforward plot (don't expect a big third-act twist).  Nonetheless, it's a strong work of superhero film that concentrates on introducing the heroes, posing an insurmountable challenge to them, and then examining what they do to save the world.  It's easy, but enjoyable. 
The Marvel multiverse's brand-new existence serves as the backdrop for The Fantastic Four: First Steps.  That means there are no pre-established superheroes, other than the Fantastic Four, and there's no prior knowledge required.  To be honest, it's a relief to enter a Marvel film knowing nothing else, but there are some drawbacks.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps must introduce this universe and these characters, even though it does not tell an origin tale because that has been done so well in other Marvel superhero movies.  This is accomplished through montages and time jumps, which shorten the film's running length but provide an opportunity for some entertaining Marvel Comics easter eggs. The Fantastic Four: First Steps manages to be perfectly entertaining without too much overcomplication.

As Invisible Woman, Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon, Pieces of a Woman) is the focal point of the whole movie. She is equally skilled at giving strong monologues, intimate moments, and heartfelt third-act swings.  Mr. Fantastic is portrayed by Pedro Pascal (HBO's The Last of Us, Materialists) as a man with unparalleled intelligence but finds it difficult to express the same emotional depth.  Their loving marriage is as authentic as possible, flaws and all, and the couple exhibits electric chemistry. 
Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s (The Bear, Andor)  Ben Grimm is a straightforward man beneath the orange rock, and during some of the film's slower scenes, his subdued melancholy stands out.  Joseph Quinn's (Stranger Things, A Quiet Place: Day One) Human Torch seems to have jumped off the page; the group is united by his charming juvenile recklessness.  
From beginning to end, it is a true pleasure to watch this team come together as a family and tackle challenges together.  The Thunderbolts' acclaim is proof that Marvel has continuously mastered group dynamics.  But as Marvel's first family, the bond between the Fantastic Four is sincere, unironic, and unique to them. 

Overall, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a sentimental, zany, and vibrant reintroduction to Marvel’s first superhero family

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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