Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four: The First Steps’ Early Reactions Call It a Hit: “Pedro IS Reed” and CGI “Phenomenal”

Marvel fans have reason to be excited as early reactions to the upcoming Fantastic Four movie are looking very positive. According to people who have seen the final cut, the film delivers something fresh while still respecting the classic characters.

One of the first reactions came from someone in film distribution who watched the movie recently. They said he loved it and pointed out that the film doesn’t try to connect with other Marvel stories. Instead, it’s fully focused on the Fantastic Four in their own world.

They mentioned that the first ten minutes will make comic book fans smile, adding that all the actors did a great job.

About Pedro Pascal, who plays Reed Richards, his friend said, “he reluctantly admitted Pedro IS Reed.” Fans will also want to stick around after the movie ends, as there are two post-credits scenes.

More people who have now seen the movie seem to agree with this early praise. A couple of others who got to see the final version confirmed the same positive response, as reported by X user @ViewerAnon, notable industry insider. They explained that even people who don’t usually follow comic book movies enjoyed it, which is a good sign for casual audiences.

So I've followed up on this and heard back from a couple people who've also seen the final cut of FANTASTIC FOUR and yeah, heard pretty much the same thing as @RMBee. Everybody seems to really like it! Notably even those that aren't big comic book fans. https://t.co/yzc2xKqLUt

— ViewerAnon (@ViewerAnon) July 18, 2025

Here’s some examples of positive reviews dropping:

The latest early reactions echo what we’ve heard recently after another test-screening was held. People who saw the movie claimed fans of Ben Grimm and Johnny Storm have something to look forward to as well.

Even though these two characters don’t drive the main story, early reviews say they really stand out, especially during the first half hour. One reaction even described the CGI effects used in their scenes as “phenomenal.”

What makes this version of Fantastic Four feel different is its setting. The movie takes place in a world inspired by the 1960s, but with a futuristic twist. This unique world design helps the film stand out from other Marvel movies.

Interestingly, this movie skips the usual origin story. Instead, the team is already formed and ready for action as they face off against Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson. Galactus is a giant cosmic being that eats planets, setting up a big threat for the team right from the start.

The main cast includes Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards.

The movie is directed by Matt Shakman, with the script written by Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer. Filming finished in late 2024, with most of the work done in England and Spain.

The movie is set to premiere on July 21, just a few days before its official release. Fans will be able to watch it in IMAX, ScreenX, and 4DX formats. This film will also mark the start of Phase Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with a sequel already being planned.

With early reactions being so positive, fans of Marvel’s first family don’t have to wait much longer to see what’s in store.

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