How The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman Redefine Superhero Cinema

Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps and James Gunn’s Superman are poised to usher in a new era for superhero films, both drawing deeply from their comic book roots while carrying immense expectations.

These films, set to release in July 2025, aim to revitalize their respective franchises by staying true to the source material, embracing innovative filmmaking, and navigating the pressure to deliver for fans and studios alike.

This article explores the striking similarities between these two cinematic ventures and how they aim to reshape the superhero genre.

Key Takeaways:

• Fidelity to Source Material: The Fantastic Four: First Steps embraces the 1960s retro-futuristic aesthetic of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s comics, while Superman draws from Max Fleischer cartoons and classic DC lore for a vibrant, authentic take.

• High Stakes and Pressure: Both films are pivotal for their franchises, with The Fantastic Four: First Steps launching Marvel’s Phase 6 and Superman kicking off the DC Universe, each needing to prove their studio’s creative direction.

• Innovative Filmmaking: Director Matt Shakman uses retro lenses and practical effects for a distinct visual style in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, while James Gunn blends practical sets with CGI for a timeless Superman experience.

• Cultural Impact: These films aim to restore audience faith in superhero cinema by focusing on character-driven stories and standalone narratives, free from multiverse complexity.

Why Are These Films So True to Their Comic Book Roots?

Both The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman lean heavily into their comic book origins, a departure from previous adaptations that often strayed from the source.

For The Fantastic Four: First Steps, director Matt Shakman has crafted a 1960s-inspired alternate universe on Earth-828, echoing the optimistic, retro-futuristic tone of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s 1961 creation.

The film’s aesthetic, complete with Apollo 11-inspired spacesuits and a Fantasticar, mirrors the comic’s blend of sci-fi wonder and family dynamics.

Shakman’s decision to skip the origin story and present the team as established heroes aligns with the comics’ focus on their adventures as a cohesive unit, allowing for a fresh yet faithful narrative.

Similarly, James Gunn’s Superman draws inspiration from the vibrant, fantastical elements of DC Comics and Max Fleischer’s 1940s cartoons.

Gunn incorporates characters like Krypto the Superdog and fantastical elements like pocket universes, aiming to capture Superman’s mythic status as a beacon of hope.

By focusing on Clark Kent’s humanity and moral compass, the film channels the character’s classic depictions while updating him for modern audiences.

This commitment to the source material ensures both films resonate with long-time fans while inviting newcomers to their worlds.

What Pressure Do These Films Face?

The stakes couldn’t be higher for The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman. For Marvel, the former marks the launch of Phase 6 and the integration of Marvel’s First Family into the MCU, following disappointing earlier adaptations by Fox.

Kevin Feige has emphasized the importance of getting the Fantastic Four right, noting their historical significance to Marvel Comics. A misstep could undermine confidence in Marvel’s post-Endgame direction, especially after recent box office struggles.

For DC, Superman is the cornerstone of the rebooted DC Universe under Gunn and Peter Safran’s leadership. With a reported $200 million marketing budget and a need to distance itself from the uneven DCEU, the film must establish a cohesive creative vision.

Its strong $220 million global opening suggests it’s on the right track, but sustaining audience goodwill is critical. Both films face the challenge of combating superhero fatigue by delivering stories that feel fresh and essential.

How Are the Directors Innovating the Superhero Genre?

Matt Shakman and James Gunn are pushing boundaries with their filmmaking approaches. In The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Shakman blends retro-futuristic visuals with practical effects, using old lenses to evoke the 1960s sci-fi aesthetic of Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey.

This choice, combined with a focus on character-driven storytelling, creates a standalone narrative free from MCU baggage.

The film’s vibrant production design and minimal reliance on CGI-heavy battles distinguish it from recent Marvel entries, aiming for a more grounded, visually distinct experience.

Gunn, meanwhile, brings his signature blend of heart and spectacle to Superman. By combining practical sets with CGI, he crafts a Metropolis that feels both tangible and fantastical.

His decision to include quirky elements like Krypto and a kaiju-inspired threat adds a playful yet epic tone, setting the film apart from Zack Snyder’s darker Man of Steel.

Gunn’s focus on a locked script and a clear narrative arc contrasts with Marvel’s iterative approach, reflecting his commitment to a cohesive vision.

Can These Films Redefine Superhero Cinema?

Both films share a commitment to standalone storytelling, a departure from the interconnected sprawl that has weighed down recent superhero films. The Fantastic Four: First Steps thrives in its isolated Earth-828 setting, allowing audiences to enjoy the story without needing prior MCU knowledge.

Similarly, Superman establishes a new DC Universe unburdened by past continuity, focusing on Clark Kent’s personal journey. This approach could alleviate audience fatigue and make superhero films accessible again.

Their emphasis on character and optimism also sets them apart. The Fantastic Four’s family dynamics and Superman’s unwavering kindness offer a hopeful contrast to the cynicism of recent genre entries.

By prioritizing quality over quantity, both films aim to restore the genre’s cultural relevance, proving that superheroes can still inspire.

Some Closing Thoughts: A New Dawn for Superhero Films

The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman are more than just blockbusters; they’re bold statements of intent from Marvel and DC.

By honoring their comic book roots, navigating immense pressure, and embracing innovative filmmaking, these films aim to recapture the magic of superhero cinema.

As they hit theaters in July 2025, their success could signal a brighter future for the genre, reminding audiences why they fell in love with these heroes in the first place.

Whether you’re a Marvel loyalist or a DC devotee, these films promise to deliver stories that resonate far beyond the screen.