Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes back friend of the show, screenwriter Katie Presto, for a no-holds-barred breakdown of the new Fantastic Four film. From emotional arcs to cosmic stakes, they cover what worked, what surprised them, and why the movie isn’t the camp-fest some critics claim it to be.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the Thing’s character arc hits differently this time
• The subtle emotional depth behind Reed and Sue’s relationship
• How world-building and set design enhance story
• Casting choices that seemed risky but paid off
• How the theme of “family” drives the entire film

Key Moments:
00:22 – First reactions and the film’s 60s retro-futurism
03:05 – Why the Thing’s arc is the emotional core
06:20 – Reed and Sue’s realistic relationship struggles
11:40 – The space birth scene: creative or confusing?
17:14 – The film’s family theme and emotional payoff
20:09 – Franklin’s powers and tragic comic book future
21:08 – Is Reed neurodivergent? A subtle exploration
27:02 – The director’s surprising TV background

About the Guest:
Katie Presto is a screenwriter and longtime friend of the show. She brings a sharp eye and grounded insight into storytelling, structure, and character, especially in genre films. About the Host:
With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Fantastic Four (2025)
• The Guide for Every Screenwriter by Geoffrey D. Calhoun
• Matt Shakman’s filmography (Wandavision, Succession, Game of Thrones)

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:
🌐 Podcast Website
📸 Instagram @screenwriterpod
🎵 TikTok @screenwriterpod

If you loved this breakdown or have your own take on the new Fantastic Four, comment, share, and subscribe. Don’t forget to let us know if we missed anything in those post-credit scenes!

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