In this episode, Eden and Peter dive into Fantastic Four: First Steps, a surprisingly hopeful and aesthetically stunning addition to the MCU. They unpack the film’s utopian vision, its fresh take on superhero storytelling, and why it might be one of Marvel’s most emotionally resonant efforts to date. From retrofuturist aesthetics to character depth and non-violent resolutions, they explore how this movie dares to imagine a better world—and why that makes it so special.
Episode Show Notes:
Catching up: Peter’s travel chaos, shaving disasters, and reading Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Le Cunff
Reflections on creativity, late-stage capitalism, and the need for exploration and failure
Eden breaks down the odd digital logic of Japanese fantasy novels and the legacy of Dragon Quest
A detour into Star Wars Galaxies Restoration and its refreshing take on MMO life and Jedi origins
Main topic: Fantastic Four: First Steps
- Both hosts loved the movie and were surprised by how well it worked
- The mid-century retrofuturist aesthetic is a standout success
- The characters feel fully-formed and lived-in—no drawn-out origin story
- Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) emerges as the true heart and leader of the team
- Emphasis on creativity and intelligence over brute force
- A rare example of superheroes making the world better, not just protecting the status quo
- The story’s utopian tone sets it apart from typical superhero narratives
- Franklin Richards’ birth and future teased with major power implications
- Galactus and the Silver Surfer are compelling and visually stunning additions
- A shared sense of optimism and trust among the characters and the world
- Some minor nitpicks (Ben Grimm’s beard?) but overall glowing praise
- Post-credits Doom tease? Who cares.
- Nervousness about Avengers: Doomsday expectations
- Final thoughts: a hopeful, human, and character-driven superhero film that stands out
