Vanessa Kirby’s portrayal of Sue Storm in Fantastic Four: First Steps is already generating significant praise, with early reviews drawing notable comparisons to Florence Pugh and Elizabeth Olsen’s performances within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As anticipation builds toward the film’s July 25 release, fans and critics alike are applauding Kirby’s strong presence along with the overall quality of the film.
Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm Receives Acclaim Amid MCU Anticipation
While The Fantastic Four: First Steps has not yet premiered widely, the initial reactions from early screenings have set high expectations for the movie. Vanessa Kirby, cast as Susan ‘Sue’ Storm—the Invisible Woman—has emerged as a standout, quickly earning a place alongside MCU actors Florence Pugh and Elizabeth Olsen for her compelling take on one of Marvel’s iconic female heroes.
Social media buzz, including a popular post from @FilmUpdates, highlights Kirby’s performance as comparable to Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Elizabeth Olsen’s Wanda Maximoff. This recognition underscores her strong embodiment of a complex and formidable character in the superhero genre, a noteworthy feat especially when considering the doubts expressed after her casting was announced.
Vannessa Kirby as Sue Storm is being compared to the likes of Yelena Belova and Wanda Maximoff. Early reactions are praising her stand-out performance as one of Marvel’s most iconic and formidable female heroes. pic.twitter.com/1DpHU03rCm
— Film Updates
Early Reviews Suggest The Fantastic Four: First Steps Is a Marvel Redemption
Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe had reason to be cautious following a series of lukewarm releases such as Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, The Marvels, and to some degree, Captain America: Brave New World. Many feared that hope for the franchise’s revival might be misplaced with this new Fantastic Four installment.
Contrary to those concerns, early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, celebrating the film’s visuals, compelling storyline, and strong performances across the board. The use of CGI and other visual effects, in particular, has been singled out for elevating the cosmic scope magnificently, while the direction by Matt Shakman has been praised for breathing fresh energy into the MCU.
Additionally, the movie includes two intriguing post-credit scenes that are sparking excitement and urging viewers to stay until the very end.
#FantasticFour First Steps is visually one of the best things Marvel has ever made. Parts feel like Interstellar & demand IMAX. Galactus is awesome. Silver Surfer looks really, really good. VFX were often immaculate. Cosmically and on Earth, Matt Shakman dropped a visual feast. pic.twitter.com/bDSiSTNif7
— Brandon Davis
I came in tempered but #FantasticFour is truly a return to form for the MCU, the opening minutes blew my socks off in IMAX. Gardner’s & Quinn’s work stood out to me the most. Galactus gives this film real stakes and his presence is felt even off screen, incredible miniature work! pic.twitter.com/eStc6TK0mp
— Brian
#FantasticFour Quite possibly the best Marvel Studios film ever released. Absolutely loaded with talent and standout performances from Vanessa Kirby and Joseph Quinn. If you thought the MCU died with Endgame, think again. Thoughtfully crafted and easily a genre-defining classic pic.twitter.com/nU8k7c7boC
— george mckay
#TheFantasticFour is SIMPLY FANTASTIC! Marvel’s first family shines with chemistry & charisma Stan Lee would be proud of. Visually incredible, the FF dazzle from start to finish. Ben Grimm brings the heart. Silver Surfer is perfection. Matt Shakman delivers one of Marvel’s best. pic.twitter.com/OTqbbh75em
— Anthony Gagliardi
#FantasticFour is an incredible movie. The first 60 minutes are fantastic but in general, the whole movie is honestly magical. If you go into this movie with your expectations high- prepare for your mind to still be blown. It’s THAT good. Also STAY around for the end credits❗️ pic.twitter.com/JJkWSOdofU
— yoshi
Fantastic Four friggin’ rocks! More than any Marvel movie before it, F4 feels like Jack Kirby’s imagination brought to life on the big screen. Between this and Superman, 2025 might go down as the year movies finally embrace the wonderful weirdness of comic books. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/M2wS78HOic
— Chris Killian
#FantasticFour Is a masterpiece. the visual effects and the score are a HUGE stand out. Galactus Is huge In IMAX. It’s emotional and gives you hope. It beats you off and doesn’t stop. STAY Until the END CREDITS. pic.twitter.com/jEvx7g7Ojt
— deo
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
Examining the Strengths Behind the Positive Reception
Early praise for The Fantastic Four: First Steps often highlights the film’s faithful adaptation of beloved comic book elements, convincing casting choices, polished CGI, and engaging plot development—fundamental components for a successful superhero film. These elements combine to create an experience that resonates with both Marvel enthusiasts and casual viewers.
The ensemble cast features accomplished actors such as Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Julia Garner, and Ralph Ineson. Their performances have been central to rebuilding confidence in the MCU, especially following recent shortcomings. The exceptional talent on screen contributes to a refreshing energy that counters earlier signs of superhero fatigue among audiences.
This revival of excitement surrounding the MCU signals a welcomed return to the franchise’s roots, bolstering enthusiasm ahead of the official debut. Fans now appear eager to witness how the film will shape the future trajectory of Marvel Studios’ storytelling.
With such strong early responses, expectations for The Fantastic Four: First Steps are higher than ever. The movie’s July 25 release date is fast approaching, and its success could redefine the MCU’s momentum going forward.
Reflecting on these enthusiastic reviews, one notable line from the film’s buzz invites viewers to consider their own mindset:
If you expect disappointment, then you can never really be disappointed.
— MJ
Whether fans’ excitement will be fully rewarded remains to be seen, but the current momentum certainly suggests this film will be a highlight in Marvel’s ongoing saga.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Florence Pugh’s illness?
A. Pugh has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis.
Q. Did Florence Pugh cut her hair in real life?
A. In the movie “We Live in Time,” Pugh had her head shaved on-screen by her co-star Garfield, just as she had done in “A Good Person.” The shaving scene in the film was a family event for Tobias and Almut, who involved their young daughter in the process.
Q. Why is Florence Pugh’s voice so deep?
A. Oscar nominee Florence Pugh’s voice is raspy because she has tracheomalacia. This condition causes the windpipe to narrow or collapse when breathing. As a result, breathing may become noisy or produce a rattling sound. According to Boston Children’s Hospital, tracheomalacia can also lead to frequent bronchitis, a loud cough, and respiratory infections.
Q. Did Florence Pugh cut her hair?
A. In a September chat with British Vogue, the actress explained why she chose to shave her head for a role. After showing her new look at the 2023 Met Gala, Pugh mentioned that cutting her hair was an unusual experience.
