The Spoiler Stills: A Glimpse of Galactus’ Threat
Marvel’s newly released spoiler stills offer a sharper look at the film’s 1960s-inspired aesthetic—equal parts Mad Men and Jetsons—and its cosmic stakes. One image shows the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) hovering ominously over Manhattan, her chrome finish reflecting a city unaware of Galactus’ (Ralph Ineson) hunger. Another captures the Four mid-battle, their powers clashing against a backdrop of Kirby-esque machinery.
The retro-futurism works, but the real standout is the family dynamic. Pascal’s Reed feels like a harried genius dad, while Kirby’s Sue balances warmth and steel. Quinn’s Johnny? All smirk, no smugness—a relief after previous iterations. And Moss-Bachrach’s Thing? Less cartoon, more wounded linebacker.
Notably absent: John Malkovich’s Red Ghost, cut for time. A shame, but the film’s already juggling Mole Man (Paul Walter Hauser) and a planet-sized villain. Priorities.
The Bigger Picture: Patience Over Panic
Hollywood’s obsession with opening weekends has warped expectations. First Steps isn’t a flop; it’s a slow burn in an era of flash-in-the-pan spectacles. Compare it to The Marvels ($206M domestic total), and the picture brightens. Compare it to Quantumania, and it’s outright sturdy.
The takeaway? Audiences still care about these characters—just not blindly. Marvel’s challenge now is making sure Doomsday and Secret Wars give them a reason to care more.
Key Takeaways from The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Steady Box Office Legs
While not a record-breaker, the film’s consistent earnings suggest durable appeal, especially as it outpaces recent MCU underperformers.
Sequel Already in Motion
Matt Shakman’s return as director signals Marvel’s confidence, with future Avengers crossovers likely to boost the Four’s profile.
Retro-Futurism Done Right
The 1960s aesthetic isn’t just set dressing—it’s woven into the team’s dynamics and the film’s visual language.
Galactus: A Threat Worth the Wait
Ralph Ineson’s voice work and Julia Garner’s Silver Surfer tease a villain with weight, not just CGI spectacle.
Final Thought:
Will The Fantastic Four: First Steps be remembered as a game-changer? Probably not. But as a proof-of-concept for Marvel’s next decade? It’s got just enough spark.
