Reed Richards' lab is a marvel. Divided into red, yellow, and blue sections representing research, thinking, and monitoring, it's a testament to the retrofuturistic aesthetic of Marvel's upcoming 'Fantastic Four: First Steps'. This isn't your grandfather's Fantastic Four; this film, directed by Matt Shakman, boldly reimagines Marvel's First Family, starring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm. Set on a parallel Earth in the 1960s, the movie blends the vibrant energy of Jack Kirby's original comic book art with the sleek, futuristic vision of Stanley Kubrick's '2001: A Space Odyssey'. The film's retrofuturism extends beyond the lab, encompassing meticulously recreated sets such as Ben Grimm's Yancy Street neighborhood, a fictionalized version of Jack Kirby's own childhood, and an impressive array of Reed Richards' inventions, including a functional animatronic H.E.R.B.I.E. and two versions of the iconic Fantasticar, seamlessly blending mid-60s design with futuristic technology. The attention to detail extends to the costumes, with the Thing's design involving extensive collaboration between Moss-Bachrach, animators, and designers to create a character that is both compelling and human. Casting was crucial for capturing the familial dynamic at the heart of the Fantastic Four. The chosen actors – Pascal, Kirby, Quinn, and Moss-Bachrach – bring a wealth of experience from prestige television, perfectly embodying the complicated relationships within the team. The film explores the family's bond before and after their cosmic transformation, with Moss-Bachrach's portrayal of Ben highlighting his humanity beneath the rock-like exterior. Quinn's Johnny Storm is a departure from previous iterations, focusing on his intelligence and self-awareness rather than solely on his bravado. Kirby's portrayal of Sue Storm is a significant departure from the damsel-in-distress trope of the original comics. Embracing Sue's evolution over decades, including her powers and her role as a mother (with pregnancy playing a significant role in the plot), Kirby aims to portray Sue's strength, complexity, and emotional intelligence. The film also delves into the depth of Reed Richards, portrayed as a visionary genius who balances scientific brilliance with emotional depth and the weight of his responsibilities as the smartest man in the universe. The overarching narrative finds the Fantastic Four facing an unprecedented threat: Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds. Shakman's decision to showcase Galactus as the main antagonist, rather than Doctor Doom, allows for a fresh take on the familiar storyline. 'Fantastic Four: First Steps' is not merely a superhero origin story; it's a bold reimagining that aims to reintroduce Marvel's First Family for a new generation, while paying homage to its rich history. With its unique retrofuturistic aesthetic, exceptional cast, and ambitious approach to familiar narratives, it’s a film poised to redefine the Fantastic Four in the MCU.