The Fantastic Four (12A) |Close-Up Film Review
Dir: Matt Shakman, US, 2025, 115 mins
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn
Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
Just like the Thunderbolts movie, this one understands that less really can be more – especially when what you’re giving us is this good.
Set in a retro-inspired 1960s universe with a modern twist, the film is packed with stunning production design that feels both futuristic and nostalgic. The Baxter Building oozes classic comic-book cool, and the Negative Zone sequences explode with vibrant cosmic energy. You can tell the team went all out to honour Marvel’s roots while crafting something fresh for a new generation. From costume to colour palette, it’s visually a feast – a rare MCU film that actually feels like it has a defined style.
But beyond the looks, it’s the emotion that hits hardest. Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal – who might be the hardest working man in Hollywood right now… seriously, does this guy ever sleep?) carries the weight of genius, responsibility, and heartbreak on his elastic shoulders. His arc, wrestling with mistakes and the pressure to fix everything, is deeply felt. Meanwhile, Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm brings a beautiful calmness, determination, and maternal instinct to the team. A caring perfectionist, she anchors the chaos – and with her real-life pregnancy echoing her character’s journey, it adds an unexpected layer of authenticity. Kirby is simply exceptional, as always – just like she was in Pieces of a Woman.
The supporting cast shines too: Joseph Quinn brings cheeky charisma as the Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Thing gives the film its soul. There’s even a powerful Silver Surfer update – this time with more backstory and gravitas – that elevates the character beyond the surface-level shine of previous takes. And let’s just say… stay for that mid-credits scene. No spoilers, but it’s a game-changer.
Michael Giacchino’s score is a triumph – heroic, elegant, and emotionally charged. It guides the film like a compass, keeping us grounded even when things go intergalactic. And hats off to the marketing team – the campaign for this film has been truly next level. From teaser drops to immersive pop-ups, they’ve gone above and beyond. I almost didn’t get the chance to review this – thank the Marvel gods I did, because as a lifelong fan of this genre, this film hit me where it counts. The Fantastic Four gets a strong 4/5 from me. Marvel’s newest addition to the feels-like-forever franchise saga is cosmic, clever, and bursting with character. It’s not just fantastic – it’s the start of something special.
