Can We Talk About How The Fantastic Four: First Steps Is All About Female Empowerment?

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Let me start off by saying that I loved The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

To be honest, it wasn’t unexpected since I’ve enjoyed all the Fantastic Four films, even the ones starring Chris Evans and the less popular one featuring Michael B. Jordan. However, the latest one stands out as the superior Fantastic Four movie, for various reasons.

As a cinephile, I’d like to highlight an aspect of this film that seems to have slipped under the radar – its powerful portrayal of female empowerment. While some may dismiss it as “woke,” I believe this term is often overused to critique films disliked by certain individuals. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that this movie is, in fact, a celebration of girl power. So, let’s delve deeper into the feminist undertones of this captivating story.

First Off, Sue Storm, Not Mister Fantastic, Is The One Who Was Sent To Speak For The Future Foundation Summit

Initially, when folks discovered that Pedro Pascal would portray Reed Richards, it sparked a bit of dissatisfaction among some viewers. Yet, after witnessing his exceptional performance, I believe he is worthy of an apology, as he truly excelled in the role.

It seems that while Mister Fantastic and The Thing were the main points of interest for many viewers, Sue Storm, also known as The Invisible Woman, played by Vanessa Kirby, received less attention. Her casting was met with a more casual response, with most online comments expressing uncertainty about whether she could live up to Jessica Alba’s portrayal in previous versions.

The response is an emphatic “yes,” and I firmly believe that Kirby stands out as the finest Sue we’ve ever received. A significant factor contributing to this is her substantial role in the movie. In many aspects, she’s the one leading the team, not Reed.

What makes her suitable for delivering a speech at The Future Foundation Summit in this movie? Since Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic) is the one who usually forms the organization in the comics, it might be because Sue possesses a strong sense of rationality and wisdom, as I’ll explain further.

She’s Also The One Who Gets The Earth On Their Side Once People Turn Against The Fantastic Four

In many aspects, Reed is depicted as a genius with clumsy tendencies in “First Steps“. While some fans may find it unusual for the world’s smartest individual to struggle with expressing himself beyond his family circle, I appreciate this portrayal because it shows him depending on the other three characters to effectively share his ideas with the public.

Upon their disappointing meeting with Galactus, Richards recklessly discloses to the populace that this colossal figure would spare Earth if they handed over a child, instantly making the team public adversaries (more specifically, numbers 1 through 4) as people perceive them as selfish for jeopardizing the entire planet for an individual’s sake.

In this situation, it is Sue who steps forward to handle the fallout or clean up any mess. Demonstrating great courage, she takes their child out in public and delivers a passionate speech. The gist of her message is that she will not surrender her child for the sake of the earth, but equally, she will not abandon the earth for the sake of her child.

This speech was instrumental in garnering support, and without Sue’s involvement, the strategy for saving their world may have remained unimplemented. As previously mentioned, Sue truly embodies the role of a leader, making this an undeniably refreshing fact.

And Probably, Most Importantly, She Beats Galactus, Making Her The Most Powerful Member Of The Team

The first sighting of Galactus left us with chilling memories that haunted us for quite some time. Contrastingly, the portrayal of Galactus as a colossal cloud in “Rise of the Silver Surfer” was different from our experience in “First Steps”, where we were given an opportunity to truly witness his grandeur. Indeed, words can hardly do justice to his majesty.

Frankly, I was unsure how our team could overcome such a formidable foe, yet never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that Sue would single-handedly bring him down.

It’s true that the others played a part in creating a distraction, but it was ultimately Sue who took the lead in maneuvering Galactus towards the trap. She displayed her unique abilities, single-handedly guiding a cosmic entity like Galactus towards destruction with nothing more than her powers.

Indeed, there are numerous strong female characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), making me eager for an A-Force storyline. While fans often argue over who’s stronger between Captain Marvel and The Scarlet Witch, I now believe Sue Storm holds that title due to her feat of defeating Galactus! Remarkable indeed!

Shalla-Bal Also Gives The Ultimate Sacrifice To Do The Right Thing

Indeed, the term “woke” was used by some to describe this film due to the gender-swapped character resembling the Silver Surfer. Yet, it’s essential to understand that this interpretation isn’t a swap at all, considering the depicted character isn’t intended to be Norrin Radd – the original Silver Surfer.

As a devoted fan, let me clarify something exciting! Contrary to what some might think, it’s not Julia Garner portraying the Silver Surfer herself. Instead, she’s bringing Shalla-Bal to life on screen – a character deeply rooted in the comic lore. Remember the very first Silver Surfer comic? That’s where we first met Shalla-Bal, the empress of Zenn-La. Although Radd is the one who takes on the role as Herald in the comics, in this universe, it’s Shalla-Bal who steps up to become the Herald. Quite intriguing, isn’t it?

Throughout the movie, Bal grapples with feelings of guilt over the actions necessary for her planet’s survival. Eventually, Johnny Storm manages to persuade her to join their battle against Galactus. Initially, Bal doubts that they can prevail.

In the critical last moments, Johnny chooses to bravely give his life in an attempt to force Galactus back. However, it’s Shalla-Bal who selflessly pushes Johnny aside and collides with Galactus instead. Ultimately, these two women made the ultimate sacrifice to protect Earth. By the way, this movie is a powerful demonstration of female strength and empowerment.

Lastly, Most Marvel Movies Don’t Make An Inherently Female Topic Like Motherhood So Central

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, allow me to conclude by expressing my admiration for this movie being not only outstanding but also deeply rooted in the concept of fertility and parenthood. To clarify, the nurturing and safeguarding of newborns play a significant role within this film’s narrative. What makes it unique is that it delves into parenting aspects seldom seen in Marvel productions, which I find quite refreshing.

The reason Galactus is visiting Earth isn’t for consumption, but to seize Sue and Richard’s child. However, Sue firmly objects to this. To be more precise, it’s not just Sue who feels this way; Reed also shares her sentiment, but it’s Sue who will go to great lengths to protect their child. The movie also delves into Reed’s apprehension about parenthood and Sue’s serene embrace of motherhood.

In the narrative of “First Steps,” I find myself resonating with Sue, a mother brimming with anger, much like Wanda was in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” However, while Wanda tragically lost control and could not prevent her child from being taken away, Sue is determined to keep hers safe and won’t let anyone take him.

As a cinephile, it was truly invigorating to witness a heartwarming film that spotlighted the beauty of motherhood – a theme that deserves more representation within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). What are your thoughts on this? I’d be thrilled to hear your insights.

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2025-08-06 12:20