Pop Culture Happy Hour The Fantastic Four: First Steps And What's Making Us Happy
Jul 25, 2025
Ronald Young Jr., host of Leaving the Theater, joins to discuss the vibrant new film adaptation of The Fantastic Four, featuring Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby. They explore the film's colorful aesthetic and how it balances nostalgia with modern themes focused on family. The conversation also critiques its storytelling and character depth, while highlighting the creative influences from New York and Chicago. Finally, Ronald shares joyful discoveries, including a fascinating comic and fun shows, adding an entertaining twist to the discussion.
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Comic Book Faithful and Retro Futurism
- The new Fantastic Four movie embraces comic book fidelity with bright retro-futuristic visuals and quirky characters like Galactus with his tuning fork helmet.
- It skips the origin story, dropping viewers into an established heroic team celebrating their adventures in a vivid, playful world.
Missing Iconic Scenes
- Ronald Young Jr. compares saving scenes like the elevator fight in Winter Soldier or Logan to what he misses in Fantastic Four.
- He notes the movie lacks standout, rewatchable sequences that showcase the characters' powers in compelling ways.
Sunny Optimism Over Grit
- This Fantastic Four film offers a sunny, colorful optimistic vibe contrasting with grounded, gritty superhero movies.
- It confidently commits to the comics' goofiness and bold style, providing a refreshing alternative to typical superhero fare.
