"A Very Stupid Film": Critics Review the New "Fantastic Four" — Is It Worth Watching? | Interesting facts

While "Fantastic Four: First Steps" is being called Marvel's "filler project," it's already surpassed James Gunn's new "Superman" in audience appeal.

On Rotten Tomatoes it's 86%, on Metacritic it's 64 points. Let's break down what doesn't work in the film, what hits the mark, and who might actually enjoy it.

What Didn't Work

Many outlets agree the film feels too lightweight.

In their reviews on Metacritic, The Guardian and BBC call it "silly" and "naive," while IndieWire writes that Marvel is once again "crawling on its knees," afraid to do anything truly bold.

Actor Pedro Pascal in a blue superhero costume with the number 4 on his chest stands against a backdrop of fire — Frame from the film "The Fantastic Four: First Steps"

Critics complain about clichéd structure, underdeveloped characters, and plot holes. The heroes exist, but they haven't found themselves — largely because of a script that flattened them into basic functions.

Even the unexpected villain choice — Mole Man (played by Paul Walter Hauser) — looks more like an underdeveloped meme than a fully realized character. And some heroes feel like they were cut in editing (especially Natasha Lyonne).

After the exhaustingly overloaded 'Superman,' 'First Steps' sounds with refreshing clarity of purpose, writes The Irish Times. The Guardian adds: Overall a very silly film, though it does keep the superhero genre afloat.

What Critics Liked

Many reviewers found it refreshing. RogerEbert.com calls it "intelligent and inspiring," Empire calls it "the best version of the Four on screen," and The Wrap praises director Matt Shakman for "remembering what superheroics are about."

Trailer for the film "The Fantastic Four: First Steps"

The retro-futuristic style, '60s atmosphere, nostalgic titles, and Michael Giacchino's soundtrack all work. The cast (Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn) isn't afraid to be naive — and there's charm in that.

So Should You Watch It?

If you're expecting complex drama or a superhero revolution — keep walking. "First Steps" isn't "The Dark Knight" or the first "Iron Man." This is nostalgic, almost childlike, deeply sincere cinema. Sometimes too silly. Sometimes surprisingly warm.

If you want simple, cozy superhero entertainment — give the Four a chance. If not — maybe the next "steps" will be more confident. Earlier on zoomboola.com we told you about the first posters for "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," where viewers spotted strange artifacts.