The Fantastic Four are back—and this time, they’re rewinding the clock to kick off Marvel’s boldest cinematic era yet. Now showing in cinemas across the Philippines, The Fantastic Four: First Steps reintroduces the iconic superhero family with a unique blend of emotional storytelling, retro-futurist aesthetics, and a fresh take on their legacy.
A New Spin on a Legendary Origin
Set in an alternate version of the 1960s, First Steps reframes the origin story of Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm. This isn’t the sleek, hypermodern MCU we’re used to. Instead, it’s a stylized vision of a world where cosmic radiation, scientific optimism, and family bonds collide.
Director Matt Shakman explains it best: “We took the best of the 1960s and added our own spin. We didn’t want to miss the opportunity to celebrate the fact that this is an Earth you haven’t seen before.”
The film launches Marvel’s Phase Six with an emphasis not just on scale—Galactus looms large—but on heart. At its core, it’s about what it means to stay united when everything tries to pull you apart.
Meet the New Fantastic Four
Pedro Pascal stars as Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic—a genius who can stretch his body to impossible lengths, but who struggles to stay emotionally grounded. “I loved the metaphor of stretching yourself too thin,” Pascal says. “That’s who Reed is—he’s always chasing an idea, often at the cost of connection.”
Vanessa Kirby plays Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman. As the team’s emotional core, Sue brings balance and complexity to a group often defined by power. Kirby adds gravitas to a character long overdue for this kind of layered portrayal.
Joseph Quinn lights up the screen as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch. Reckless and loud on the surface, there’s an underlying vulnerability that slowly flickers into focus as the film progresses.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach delivers a grounded and surprisingly heartfelt performance as Ben Grimm, aka The Thing. His physical transformation is dramatic, but it’s the emotional toll—and the loyalty to his friends—that drives his arc forward.
Retro-Futurism, Big Feelings, and a Galactus-Sized Threat
Backed by a soaring score from Oscar-winner Michael Giacchino and a script from Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, and Jeff Kaplan & Ian Springer, First Steps has earned praise from longtime fans and curious newcomers alike. It balances action with introspection, giving each member of the team their moment without feeling overstuffed or rushed.
The film doesn’t rely on cameos or multiverse gimmicks. It stands on its own—confident, stylish, and emotionally resonant.
Now Showing in Cinemas Across the Philippines
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is now entering its second week in local theaters. If you haven’t seen it yet, this is your chance to experience Marvel’s most personal epic on the big screen.
Tickets are available now via Disney Philippines. Use the hashtag #TheFantasticFourPH to join the conversation.
Follow @disneystudiosph on Instagram, Facebook, and X for more behind-the-scenes content and updates.
Read More:
Fantastic Four First Steps: Our Initial Thoughts and Reaction – VRSUS
