Fantastic Four: First Steps Couldn’t Have Picked a Better Marvel Comic For Inspiration, And I Need You to Know Why

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Fans of both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and The Fantastic Four have been waiting for years for the upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps film. Now, weeks before the premiere, the director revealed The Fantastic Four comic run that shaped the way he approached crafting the characters, events, and film’s overall themes. This choice signals a deep understanding of what makes the First Family truly fantastic.

In an interview with Variety, Director Matt Shakman recently shared that Jonathan Hickman’s tenure on Fantastic Four and its follow-up, FF, from 2009 to 2012, was the primary source of inspiration for First Steps.

Hickman’s era is widely regarded as one of the definitive modern interpretations of the team, as it crafts a sprawling saga that redefines the scientific and emotional core of the Richards family and their extended network. This isn’t just about cosmic adventures; it’s about the very essence of discovery, family, and the ethical responsibilities that come with unimaginable power.

Hickman’s Fantastic Four Greatly Expanded The Scope Of Marvel’s First Family

Fantastic Four (2010) And FF (2011)

Jonathan Hickman’s run on Fantastic Four didn’t just tell new stories; it meticulously built upon the team’s decades-long legacy as Marvel’s First Family, expanding their scientific ambition to truly cosmic and existential levels. He transformed the Baxter Building into the nexus of all scientific endeavors, not just for The Fantastic Four, but for a whole new generation of child geniuses. This ties in with the recent news that Sue Storm will be pregnant in First Steps, bringing Franklin Richards into the mix.

The series also introduced the Council of Reeds, alternate reality versions of Reed Richards who sought to solve all universal problems, showcasing the terrifying potential of unchecked intellect. This deep dive into theoretical physics and multiversal exploration offers a boundless canvas for the film, while also tying into the “Multiverse Saga” that the MCU is currently focusing on, with pillar characters like Doctor Strange and Wanda Maximoff.

Hickman’s Fantastic Four constantly pushed the boundaries of what the team could achieve, both intellectually and morally. Their adventures weren’t just about defeating a villain; they were about exploring the very fabric of reality, understanding the universe, and confronting the ethical dilemmas that come along with that knowledge. This emphasis on big ideas and the consequences of wielding immense power aligns perfectly with the current trajectory of the MCU, which has increasingly dealt with ramifications of its heroes’ actions. The film has the opportunity to introduce a new avenue of storytelling, moving beyond typical superhero tropes.

Furthermore, Hickman’s run masterfully balanced grand-scale cosmic events with deeply personal character development. The stakes were always astronomically high, but the emotional core of the family, such as Reed’s relentless pursuit of knowledge, Sue’s unwavering moral compass, Johnny’s evolving maturity, and Ben’s enduring humanity, remained central. This blend of epic scope and intimate character study is crucial for First Steps. It ensures that even amidst multiversal threats and scientific breakthroughs, the audience remains invested in the characters’ personal journeys. This expanded scope perfectly positions the MCU film to incorporate The Fantastic Four as a foundational element, not just another superhero team.

The Series Redefined Sue Storm And Explored The Depths of Reed Richards’ Genius

Sue And Reed Are About To Become The Power Couple Of The MCU

One of the most significant achievements of Hickman’s Fantastic Four was the nuanced and powerful portrayal of Sue Storm. Often overlooked and diminished to a supporting role, Sue became the emotional anchor of the team. In this interview with Variety, Shankman said:

Hickman’s Sue may be the most powerful member of the Four. She’s the glue that holds the world together while Reed experiments in the lab with things that could destroy it. She brokers deals as the world’s finest diplomat, ending up as the Queen of the Sea. In one of my favorite F4 moments, she declares to Namor, “I am a Queen that bows before no King.'”Damn right.

This redefinition of Sue’s character is vital for the MCU adaptation, offering a strong, multifaceted female lead who can stand alongside the likes of Captain Marvel and Wanda Maximoff. The film can finally give Sue the respect and spotlight she truly deserves.

Concurrently, Hickman delved into the complex psyche of Reed Richards, exploring the burden that came along with his genius and his often-stifling dedication to scientific advancement. The series dared to ask difficult questions about the ethical implications of Reed’s genius, showcasing his moments of brilliance alongside his occasional emotional detachment. This depth is essential for avoiding the possible pitfall of Reed becoming a one-dimensional character. The film can present a more human and relatable Reed, one who grapples with the weight of his decisions and the impact they have on his family and the universe.

The dynamic between Reed and Sue, often strained by Reed’s constantly running mind, was a cornerstone of the series. Their relationship wasn’t sugar-coated; it was presented with all its complexities, struggles, and unwavering love. This realistic portrayal of a marriage under extraordinary circumstances opens the door to rich material for the film to explore. By paying specific attention to the strength of their partnership, even amidst global and cosmic crises, First Steps can deliver a powerful message about family resilience.

Hickman’s Run Seamlessly Blended Grounded Emotion In A Family At The Forefront Of The Cosmos

When All Is Said And Done, The Fantastic Four Are More Than Just A Superhero Team: They Are A Family

Perhaps the most compelling reason why Hickman’s Fantastic Four is the perfect blueprint for First Steps lies in its unparalleled ability to weave incredibly personal, emotional stories against the backdrop of mind-bending galactic grandeur. The death of Johnny Storm (though temporary, as is often the case in comics) was a pivotal moment, shattering the team and forcing them to confront their vulnerability in a way they hadn’t before. This dramatic turning point, coupled with the introduction of the Future Foundation, truly hones in on the team’s enduring spirit and their commitment to shaping a better tomorrow.

The introduction of the Future Foundation, a group of gifted children mentored by Reed, Sue, and eventually Ben, offered a fresh perspective on the team’s mission. It shifted their focus from simply protecting the world to actively cultivating the next generation of scientific minds. It allows The Fantastic Four to be seen not just as heroes, but as mentors and leaders, inspiring hope and progress in a universe often plagued by conflict.

Ultimately, Hickman’s run is a testament to the enduring power of family, the boundless potential of scientific discovery, and the heavy responsibility that comes with being at the forefront of the unknown. It’s a series that understands that The Fantastic Four are more than just superheroes; they are explorers, innovators, and a family unit facing unimaginable challenges together. By drawing inspiration from this comic run, Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to deliver a film that is not only visually spectacular and intellectually stimulating but also deeply human and emotionally resonant, setting a new gold standard for Marvel’s First Family in the MCU.

Source: Variety

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