Fantastic Four: First Stepshas a tough road ahead of it. Despite being “Marvel’s First Family,” the Fantastic Four has a rocky cinematic history. The first attempt at a theatrical adaptation in 1994 never saw a release, though the few critics who saw the film panned it. In 2005,Fantastic Fourdebuted to, once again, unfavorable reviews, exacerbated by the release ofThe Incrediblesa year prior. Still, it was a financial success, so a sequel,Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,came out two years later, to poor reviews and box office returns that didn’t justify a sequel.
Fantastic Fourreceived a second life through a reboot in 2015. Again, it was poorly received by critics and fans alike, stalling any sequel plans. However, the Disney-Fox merger brought the Fantastic Four tothe MCU timeline. Marvel’s First Family returning home should be exciting, but Deadpool said it best: “you’re joining at a bit of a low point.” As such, I have reservations aboutFantastic Four: First Steps.Marvel has to get the tone right, orthe upcomingFantastic Four: First Stepswill fail.I’ll admit, though, the recent reveal of the film’s theme has me more optimistic.
Marvel Studios' Infinity Saga Concert Experience Treated Fans To A Surprise Soundtrack Reveal
The theme forFantastic Four: First Stepshad a surprise reveal at an unexpected event. On August 30 and 31, the Hollywood Bowl presented Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience. The concert aimed to “recapture the excitement as Earth’s mightiest heroes join forces for the first time and open the door to the next wave of Avengers,” showcasing the music of the MCU. Fans were treated to a bonus performance of the newFantastic Fourtheme.The theme was composed by Michael Giacchino, whose work spans scores for Marvel, Pixar, Warner Bros., and more.
A surprise reveal at a concert for MCU diehards was a surefire way to drum up excitement for the theme and the movie itself, nearly a year before its release.I, for one, find the theme ideal for a newFantastic Fourfilm.
The Fantastic Four Theme Is Seriously Perfect For The Upcoming MCU Team
Michael Giacchino’s Score Foreshadows An Exciting Adventure
Giacchino’s score is whimsical and adventurous, setting a fun tone forFantastic Four: First Steps. The film, directed by Matt Shakman, will follow Marvel’s First Family in the 1960s. The Fantastic Four has significant ties with space exploration and revolutionary technological leaps, so a retro-futuristic approach to the film is an inspired choice.
When listening to Giacchino’s music, I feel like I’m walking through Future World in EPCOT, which suits the Fantastic Four.
The theme forFantastic Four: First Stepschannels the retro-inspired vibes in a unique way. When listening to Giacchino’s music, I feel like I’m walking through Future World in EPCOT, which suits the Fantastic Four. If the rest ofFantastic Four: First Stepscommits to the retro-futuristic setting as much as the music does,the film could be a big win for the MCU, setting itself apart from recent offerings with a distinct take.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps' Theme Has Made Me More Hopeful Than Ever For The MCU Movie
If Giacchino’s Fantastic Four Score Is Any Indicator, We Are In For A Fun Ride
With the theme revealed forFantastic Four: First Steps, I am more confident in Marvel’s vision for the film. While certainly retro, the theme is also highly emotional, building beautifully throughout. It suggeststhe movie plans to take advantage of its stacked cast, showing off the actors' dramatic capabilities.
Fantastic Four: First Stepsstars Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, and Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm. Additional cast membersRalph Ineson and Julia Garner are confirmed to play Galactusand the Silver Surfer, respectively. That’s an impressive lineup of actors more than capable of balancing emotion with the nostalgia the film calls for.
Between the music, the 1960s setting, andthe John Byrne-inspired costumes,Fantastic Four: First Stepsstands to exceed where some of the MCU’s recent efforts have fallen short. Of course, plot details are largely unknown, and it might be too early to speak confidently about the film’s success. Regardless, I find myself periodically listening to the score and feeling a glimmer of hope thatFantastic Four: First Stepsmight just be a hit.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Cast
The Fantastic 4: First Steps features Marvel’s First Family navigating their dual roles as superheroes and family members in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world. They defend Earth from a formidable space god, Galactus, and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer, testing their familial bonds and heroic resolve.
