Fantastic Four (2015)
I am a big fan of the Fantastic Four. My love for them started through my dad who is a big fan as well. I grew up reading the John Byrne run which in my opinion and the opinion of many, rivals if not surpasses the Kirby early days. I was definitely excited to see this movie at first, but I opted it out instead, after all the negative feedback prior and during the showing of the film. Now, that I have finally been able to watch it, I am left holding a bag of mixed emotions.
For starters, the film is not as bad as I thought it would be. It is not perfect by any means, and it definitely makes some serious sins concerning the plot and the storyline. It lacks a proper backstory, or at least a proper telling of each character's background. It leaves you with a sense of not really knowing or even caring about their struggles and the reasons for their existence. Doctor Doom is an eco-terrorist that acts more like a pissed up version of Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters fans will catch my drift
) but it is not the Super villain we have all grown to lovely hate.
At times, the especial effect are cheaply looking. But in other occasions they are really well done. Some members of the team are well executed while other feel poorly written and portrayed. This is the part where in my opinion the movie feels disjointed and incomplete. The dark tone that hangs over the film in its entirety, robs you of the sense of wonder, discovery and the family spirit that have always been the main staples of the franchise. Ultimately, it cripples any desire to invest yourself in.
All in all, the movie had a few good moments. But they were not enough to raise it above other superhero films. Do not get me wrong; I did not hate it, but I did not like it either. It is just another clear example of the importance of not dismissing feedback from fans. In this time and age, to make money you have to be willing to compromise.
Final Score: 6.5/10 - Above Average
