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Fresh out of the theater, we're diving straight into Marvel's latest attempt to bring the Fantastic Four to life in "First Steps." This film represents yet another chapter in the troubled cinematic history of Marvel's first family, and we're breaking down exactly why it stumbles despite its impressive cast and visuals.

The movie teases greatness with an exhilarating opening sequence showcasing the team's powers, but quickly devolves into a frustrating waiting game. Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby deliver committed performances as Reed Richards and Sue Storm, with Kirby particularly shining in emotional moments. However, the film fundamentally misunderstands what makes the Fantastic Four special – their dynamic family chemistry and distinctive personalities.

We explore how the retrofuturistic aesthetic creates a unique visual identity but lacks narrative purpose, and why Galactus' mere four minutes of screen time in a two-hour movie represents a massive missed opportunity. Through a direct comparison with James Gunn's Superman, we highlight where both films succeed and fail in their superhero storytelling approaches. For longtime Fantastic Four fans, this will feel like another disappointment in a long line of adaptations that can't seem to capture the magic of Marvel's original superhero team. If you're looking for the definitive Fantastic Four experience, you might be better off watching The Incredibles instead! Subscribe now for more brutally honest superhero movie reviews delivered straight from the theater to your ears.

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