Reviving the Marvel Universe: "The Fantastic Four: First Steps"

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" provides a refreshing change from Marvel's recent box office underperformers. There is an evident shift in Marvel's approach that prioritizes characterization over an overuse of CG action sequences. The film stands independently, without the necessity of being familiar with the expansive Marvel universe that may have contributed to an over-saturation of the genre.

Taking inspiration from a quote by Jack Kirby, one of the original creators of the comic series, the film developers truly imbued their characters with relatability. Whereas the Fantastic Four possess superpowers, they are illustrated as a struggling family dealing with life's ups and downs.

The film's aesthetics draw heavily from its origins in the 1960s, featuring an enchanting retro-futuristic look. Everything from the appearances of Times Square and the Lower East Side, to products identifiers like 7Up and Canada Dry, are time-period accurate.

The origin story is woven seamlessly into the narrative. Reed Richards lead a space expedition with his crew, who, due to a cosmic storm, end up gaining superpowers, and turn into media darlings and beloved protectors of the planet.

Despite the CG element in the film, each character displays a unique expression of human personality traits. The members of the Fantastic Four are portrayed as distinctly human, despite their extraordinary abilities.

The film introduces a crisis that forces the Fantastic Four to venture back into space. The cosmic entity named Galactus, intends to consume earth, as he has done with countless other planets.

The narrative takes a significant turn when Galactus proposes to spare Earth in exchange for the child Sue is carrying. The following events envelop the audience in suspense as the foursome's heroic journey is humanized by the impending birth of Sue's child.

The director, Matt Shakman, strikes the right balance between humor and seriousness in his storytelling approach. Shakman allows the character-based scenes to drive the narrative, rather than letting action cloud character development.

The film repeatedly emphasizes the power and strength of familial bonds and how they can be a beacon of hope. It finally culminates in a poignant confrontation with Galactus, brought to life by the emotional performances of the actors.

The design elements will have mid-century enthusiasts swooning. The tastefully balanced practical set builds with digital elements give the film an authentic aura. Amid the high-tech space sequences, the film manages to retain an old-school charm.

Of course, the film ends with a teaser for the what's next, hinting at "Avengers: Doomsday". But with the success of this new direction with the Fantastic Four, the audience would be thrilled to see this familial foursome return for more.