Matt Fraction and Mark Buckingham kick off the summer movie season with a standalone issue from the Future Foundation, building hype for the highly anticipated Fantastic Four film!
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is at a pivotal moment. With Endgame concluded and the Avengers’ spotlight dimming, a void has opened, ready for any hero to fill. It was only a matter of time before America’s First Family, the Fantastic Four, stepped into that spotlight with their silver screen feature. And with this cinematic moment comes a chance to reboot the team with fresh faces! The new designs, based on the actors cast in the movie, are the first thing readers will notice when they pick up the comic.
In this one-shot issue, we get a quick synopsis of our four talented scientists, both before and after the iconic cosmic rays that granted them their powers. We’re also introduced to their initial setting: Rocket City, USA, where the four are quarantined to understand themselves and their sudden transformation better. Long-time fans will immediately recognize that the familiar team dynamics remain intact. The story introduces a conflict that the Fantastic Four can’t ignore, prompting them to leave the confines of their temporary safety bubble to resolve it.
Marvel Comics
As the title suggests, Fantastic Four: First Steps is precisely that: an initial stride for America’s First Family as they adjust to an ever-changing world with their new powers. However, the conflict in this issue is resolved as quickly as it arises. It’s clear that this comic exists primarily to establish the team’s dynamics and the world they inhabit before their cinematic debut. This becomes apparent when examining how specific story beats are delivered.
Throughout the issue, various quotes from the family are provided to news outlets and TV channels, offering their thoughts on their newfound endeavor. The presentation and timing of these quotes offer valuable insight into each character. Whether it’s a feature highlighting Reed’s intelligence or a card inviting you to join the “Flaming Hearts” fan club, these elements add an appreciable layer of immersion.
Marvel Comics
While the cover art beautifully showcases the four and their powers, the rest of the issue’s art direction is standard. The fight choreography is lacking, largely serving to familiarize the reader with the characters.
Ultimately, Fantastic Four: First Steps is a solid standalone issue that will get both long-time fans and newcomers excited to see America’s First Family on the big screen. While the action isn’t particularly noteworthy, it successfully introduces us to the personalities we’ll be following when we step into theaters in late July. Approaching the comic with that understanding makes it quite an enjoyable read.
‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ #1 (2025) Review: A New Era for Marvel’s First Family
Ultimately, Fantastic Four: First Steps is a solid standalone issue that will get both long-time fans and newcomers excited to see America’s First Family on the big screen. While the action isn’t particularly noteworthy, it successfully introduces us to the personalities we’ll be following when we step into theaters in late July. Approaching the comic with that understanding makes it quite an enjoyable read.
