

257 - The Music of The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Aug 5, 2025
Academy Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino joins film music historian Jon Burlingame to discuss his score for 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps.' Giacchino shares his creative process, merging nostalgia with vibrant musical choices like choirs and synthesizers. They explore emotional depths in themes for characters like Galactus and the Silver Surfer, highlighting how music reflects their journeys. Additionally, they touch on the innovative use of Dolby Atmos technology, enriching the storytelling experience. This conversation is a must for any superhero fan!
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Early Composition of Theme
- Michael Giacchino composed the main Fantastic Four theme over a year before filming started.
- They premiered it at Comic-Con to test audience reception early on, which was a rare opportunity.
Musical Portrayal of Galactus
- Galactus's theme represents an unstoppable, unchanging force symbolizing eternal hunger.
- The choir sings Latin lyrics about this endless cosmic appetite, adding subtle depth.
Emotional Core of Silver Surfer Theme
- The Silver Surfer’s theme began as a simple piano piece reflecting sadness.
- Michael layered it to express her emotional core beneath her villainous role.