'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' Review: Matt Shakman Brings Emotion Back to Marvel (Disney+)

The Fantastic Four: First Steps Review

With Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby leading a heartfelt, restrained reboot, First Steps breathes new life into an old formula by focusing on a smaller scale rather than bigger spectacle.

Going Smaller to Refresh the Marvel Formula

When superhero stories can no longer become bigger and more explosive, Marvel appears to have chosen to go smaller. In The Fantastic Four: First Steps, the threat is significant, but the story’s scope remains intimate.

A Different Approach to a Blockbuster

Unlike typical Marvel blockbusters defined by extensive explosions and special effects, Matt Shakman's film embraces a clear visual style, a limited cast, a notably dramatic tone, and a straightforward narrative.

“For the first time in a long while, you get the sense that a Marvel movie has a personal vision, a coherent one—and that it also fulfills its mission to entertain.”

About Director Matt Shakman

Shakman has directed only one previous feature film, the lesser-known Cut Bank (2014), but boasts extensive TV directing experience on acclaimed shows like Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Fargo, and Succession.

Author’s summary: The Fantastic Four: First Steps revitalizes Marvel’s formula by blending intimate storytelling with a distinct personal vision under Matt Shakman’s direction.

Would you prefer a more formal or casual tone in this review?

Micropsia — 2025-11-01