Matt Shakman’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps nails the retro-futuristic vibe and cast chemistry, but falls short of delivering any standout Marvel moments. Still, the third time really is (mostly) the charm for Marvel’s first family. Visually, the film is a knockout – slick and full of 60’s style color-soaked spectacle. The cast also delivers across the board, with the core four exuding the essential warmth and charisma. Julia Garner is a scene-stealer as the Silver Surfer, delivering a stoic, mysterious performance that adds real gravitas. The action also hits. Fiery, fun, and occasionally exhilarating. But while the movie hits the right notes on tone and teamwork, it never builds to a truly unforgettable crescendo. There’s no iconic, fist-pumping moment that demands rewatches or causes spontaneous audience cheers. On the plus side, First Steps smartly skips the tired origin story formula. Instead, it fills in the gaps with breezy flashbacks that are so great, you might wish the entire film had been about those earlier adventures. The main plot - a familiar cosmic threat with Earth’s fate hanging in the balance - is serviceable but far from ground-breaking. The stakes are technically high, but never quite feel it. We know how this ends, and the film does little to challenge that certainty. That said, the emotional core really lands. The inclusion of Sue and Reed’s baby gives the story a grounded, relatable throughline about parental sacrifice and protection. It’s this personal touch that gives the film its heart, and it works. Where it stumbles is with its post-credit scenes. Marvel has trained audiences to expect game-changing reveals, but this one fizzles out with a shrug rather than a bang. No spoilers, but don’t expect the internet to go wild. Still, First Steps lays a solid foundation. The team dynamic shines, the aesthetic is fresh, and the groundwork is there for more ambitious—and hopefully more fantastic—sequels. It may not be a grand slam, but it’s a promising start that finally gives the Fantastic Four a version worth building on.