A new superhero film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, is making waves with its combination of lavish sets and dazzling special effects. Released amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty, the film offers an aspirational narrative that resonates deeply with audiences. Featuring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, also known as Mister Fantastic, the film is a fresh take on one of Marvel’s most enduring franchises.
Starring alongside Pascal are Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn, who bring life to the iconic roles of the Invisible Woman, the Thing, and the Human Torch, respectively. The film’s release coincides with a global promotional tour that has seen the cast welcomed by enthusiastic fans around the world, including a recent stop in Sydney.
A New Take on Classic Heroes
The Fantastic Four, created by the legendary duo of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, has always stood apart in the comic book world. Unlike many superheroes who grapple with dual identities or personal demons, the Fantastic Four are known both by their real names and their superhero monikers. This unique aspect is carried into the new film, which promises to deliver a narrative unlike any other in the genre.
According to Vanessa Kirby, the film delves into the emotional complexities of its characters, exploring themes of identity and humanity. “The film actually looks at what it’s like to feel all the conflicting things that we feel as humans,” she says. “We have good days. We have bad days. Sometimes we feel like we have a superpower. Sometimes we feel like we’re the very opposite.”
Art as a Subconscious Antidote
Pedro Pascal, who has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, reflects on the impact of storytelling in his own life. “I feel raised by commercial entertainment and Hollywood stories, for better or worse,” he says. “And what I love is that [The Fantastic Four and Superman] work and provide a kind of adventure-in-storytelling that was able to imprint itself into my childhood experience growing up.”
This sentiment is echoed by director Matt Shakman, who describes the project as a labor of love. “I’ve loved The Fantastic Four since I was a kid, so this is a dream job and a chance to bring these characters to life … is incredibly exciting. I’m honored,” Shakman shares.
Behind the Scenes: A Mid-Century Marvel
The production of The Fantastic Four: First Steps took place at London’s Pinewood Studios, a location steeped in cinematic history. The film’s production team, led by Shakman, embraced a mid-century aesthetic that informs both the visual style and character development.
Pedro Pascal notes the importance of this setting in shaping the film’s narrative. “There’s a lot of style that shapes the way things are played, and it’s a … kind of delicate balance of a world that is very nostalgic,” he explains. The decision to create many of the sets physically, rather than relying solely on special effects, adds a layer of authenticity to the film.
A Collaborative Process
The film’s creative process was notably collaborative, allowing the actors significant input into their roles. “More room than I was expected to ever have to fill, actually,” says Pascal. “They’ve been incredibly collaborative and we had a beautiful sort of theatre-like rehearsal process before we started shooting the movie.”
This approach has resulted in a film that balances the fantastical elements of its story with genuine human emotion. As Shakman puts it, “When you are trying to bring these larger-than-life characters who have such special power sets into the real world, you have to figure out how to ground them.”
The Future of Superhero Cinema
The release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps marks a significant moment in the evolution of superhero films. As the genre continues to grow, films like this one push the boundaries of storytelling, offering audiences not just spectacle, but also substance.
For fans and newcomers alike, the film provides a reminder of the power of storytelling to inspire and uplift. As audiences around the world flock to theaters, the film’s message of hope and humanity resonates more than ever, offering a bright spot in an often uncertain world.
With its unique blend of action, emotion, and nostalgia, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to become a defining film of its time, leaving a lasting impact on both the superhero genre and its audiences.
