Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby lead a solid cast in this comic-book throwback that doesn't rewrite the genre but celebrates it.

As Reed, Pascal is convincing as the world’s smartest man who is nevertheless overwhelmed by the irrational flood of thoughts and emotions that accompany fatherhood. As written, Sue is a somewhat thankless character, but Kirby manages to add depth to the Invisible Woman with subtle performance choices.

But it was a little odd to hear that Marvel also planned to make the Fantastic Four a major part of the MCU’s future. Even though the Fantastic Four have always been prominent in Marvel’s comics, the characters — created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee — had never translated well to the big screen.

It’s box office clobberin’ time — or so Marvel hopes. “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” the 37th installment in Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe and third to release in 2025, is aiming for $100 million to $110 million in its opening weekend.

More smelling salts at the box office this weekend which will continue to wake up audiences from superhero fatigue as Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps is looking to do between $190M-$210M around the world.

Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn star in Marvel's latest, out July 25.

Pedro Pascal leads a cast of fine actors in yet another sluggish attempt to bring the Marvel comic heroes to life.

First Steps are absolutely fantastic. Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps releases in United States theaters this weekend. Directed by Matt Shakman, the MCU flick stars Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards,