Fantastic Four: First Steps Releases Amid Mixed Reviews, MCU Doomsday Setup Unresolved

Marvel's 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' marks a significant and fresh entry into the MCU, focusing on the team as a family with a nostalgic 1960s retro-futuristic vibe that sets it apart from other superhero films. The movie is praised for its character-driven storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, while featuring the cosmic villain Galactus in a way that honors his comic book legacy. Despite its intimate moments, the film ultimately succumbs to familiar blockbuster tropes involving large-scale threats like portals and cosmic battles, a pattern criticized by screenwriter Damon Lindelof as typical of modern franchise films. Additionally, the film teases the MCU's future with a brief but significant appearance of Doctor Doom, setting up the forthcoming crossover event 'Avengers: Doomsday.' However, critics note that 'The Fantastic Four' fails to adequately build anticipation or context for Doom's central role in the upcoming saga. Overall, the film is seen as a much-needed revival for the Fantastic Four franchise, balancing character focus with the demands of a sprawling cinematic universe.