Fantastic Four
Fantastic Four
During a space voyage, four scientists are altered by cosmic rays: Reed Richards gains the ability to stretch his body; Sue Storm can become invisible; Johnny Storm controls fire; and Ben Grimm is turned into a super-strong … thing. Together, these "Fantastic Four" must now thwart the evil plans of Dr. Doom and save the world from certain destruction.
Manuel Frangis reviewedMarch 24, 2025
I just watched the 2005 Fantastic Four movie again and I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. I know some people love to hate on this one but honestly I think it is a super fun superhero movie that does exactly what it sets out to do. It gives you cool powers, classic comic book characters, and just the right amount of early 2000s cheesiness to make it feel like a time capsule in the best way.
The cast is actually really solid. Ioan Gruffudd plays Reed Richards aka Mr Fantastic and he does a good job being the serious science guy. Jessica Alba is Sue Storm aka Invisible Woman and even though her character could have used more depth she brings a lot of energy and charm. Michael Chiklis as Ben Grimm aka The Thing is probably the most emotional character and you actually feel bad for him while still laughing at some of his one liners.
But let’s be real Chris Evans as Johnny Storm is the standout. He is hilarious, cocky, and brings so much personality to the role. This was before he became Captain America and he just goes all in on the Human Torch. His performance adds so much life to the group and his chemistry with the rest of the cast makes the team feel like a real dysfunctional family.
The origin story is simple but it works. The team goes on a space mission, gets exposed to cosmic radiation, and comes back with powers. From there the movie focuses on them trying to understand their new abilities while dealing with media attention and personal struggles. It is not super deep but it keeps things entertaining.
The action is fun and the special effects actually hold up better than I expected. The Thing’s suit looks great and you can tell it was practical which gives him more weight and realism. The Human Torch effects look cool especially for 2005 and Mr Fantastic’s stretchy powers are weird in a fun comic book way.
The villain is Doctor Doom and while he is not as over the top as some other versions of the character he still brings a solid amount of menace and style. I liked how he slowly becomes more powerful and starts clashing with the team. He is not the deepest villain but he fits the tone of the movie and gives the Fantastic Four something to unite against.
The pacing is pretty smooth. It does not feel rushed or too slow and there is a good balance of character moments, comedy, and superhero action. Some parts feel a little dated now especially the music and some of the dialogue but honestly that is part of the charm. It feels like a classic superhero movie before the MCU really changed the game.
The reason I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars is because it is just a fun movie. It does not try to be gritty or overly complicated. It just wants to tell a light hearted superhero story with a team that is learning to work together and figure things out.
Overall the 2005 Fantastic Four is a fun and underrated comic book movie that is way better than people give it credit for. It has heart, cool powers, and a cast that brings the characters to life. I had a great time rewatching it and I still think it deserves way more love.