The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Rotten Tomatoes Score: Where It Ranks Among MCU’s Best

The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Rotten Tomatoes score of 88% Certified Fresh has positioned it as a standout in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), marking a historic high for Marvel’s First Family.

Debuting with 95 reviews as of July 23, 2025, this Phase Six opener has critics buzzing about its retro-futuristic charm, stellar cast, and fresh take on the Fantastic Four. But where does it stand among the MCU’s highest-rated films of all time?

Below, we analyze its place in the MCU’s critical hierarchy, compare it to the franchise’s top performers, and speculate on its lasting impact, complete with an SEO-optimized table for clarity.

How Does First Steps Compare to MCU Heavyweights?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps enters the MCU’s Rotten Tomatoes rankings with an 88% score, tying it with Thunderbolts* (2025) and placing it among the franchise’s elite. The MCU’s top-rated films, based on Rotten Tomatoes data, include Black Panther (96%), Avengers: Endgame (94%), Iron Man (94%), Spider-Man: No Way Home (93%), and Guardians of the Galaxy (92%).

First Steps’ 88% slots it just below these giants, matching Thor: Ragnarok and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, both at 88%.

This strong debut outpaces recent hits like James Gunn’s Superman (83%) and positions First Steps as a critical success in a franchise known for consistent quality.

What Puts First Steps in the Top Tier?

Critics praise First Steps for its vibrant 1960s-inspired aesthetic, Michael Giacchino’s score, and the chemistry of its cast—Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm).

Unlike past Fantastic Four films, which struggled with low scores (9% for 2015’s Fant4stic), this reboot captures the comic’s family-driven spirit.

Posts on X highlight its historic significance, noting it as the only non-sequel MCU film in the all-time Top 20, a testament to its standalone appeal.

However, some reviews mention script weaknesses and CGI inconsistencies, which could impact its ranking as more reviews roll in.

Where Does It Rank Among the MCU’s Best?

The table below ranks The Fantastic Four: First Steps against the MCU’s highest-rated films by Rotten Tomatoes score, based on verified data as of July 23, 2025. It includes critic scores, review counts, and key critical sentiments to provide a clear comparison.

This table shows First Steps tying for sixth place with Thor: Ragnarok and Shang-Chi, a remarkable feat for a non-sequel introducing a new team to the MCU. Its score surpasses recent entries like Captain America: Brave New World (not listed, but noted as critically underwhelming) and aligns with Phase Four and Five’s stronger performers.

Why Doesn’t First Steps Top the List?

While First Steps’ 88% is impressive, it falls short of Black Panther’s 96%, driven by the latter’s cultural significance and near-universal acclaim.

Avengers: Endgame and Iron Man benefit from their pivotal roles in the MCU’s narrative arc, with Endgame as the Infinity Saga’s climax and Iron Man as its groundbreaking origin.

Spider-Man: No Way Home’s multiversal spectacle and Guardians’ fresh humor also edge out First Steps due to higher review counts and broader impact. Some critics, like Jon Negroni of InBetweenDrafts, argue First Steps feels formulaic at times, which may cap its score compared to more innovative entries.

Some Closing Thoughts: Can First Steps Climb Higher?

With only 95 reviews, First Steps’ score could shift as more critics weigh in post-release on July 25, 2025. Its current 88% is strong but trails the top five due to their higher review counts and established legacy.

Posts on X suggest fan excitement, with some calling it a sign the MCU is “back on track,” which could boost its audience score and critical stability. If it maintains or improves its rating, it could challenge Shang-Chi or Thor: Ragnarok for a higher spot, though surpassing Black Panther’s 96% seems unlikely.

What Does This Mean for the MCU’s Future?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ place among the MCU’s top-rated films signals a critical resurgence after a mixed Phase Five. Its 88% score ties it with Thunderbolts*, suggesting Marvel is regaining its footing with fresh, character-driven stories.

As a setup for Avengers: Doomsday (2026), First Steps could anchor Phase Six, much like Iron Man did for Phase One. Its success as a non-sequel highlights Marvel’s ability to introduce new heroes effectively, a key factor as the MCU integrates the X-Men and expands its multiverse.

Whether it holds its ranking will depend on audience reception and its box office performance against competitors like Superman.

Key Takeaways:

Rotten Tomatoes Ranking: The Fantastic Four: First Steps ties for sixth at 88% Certified Fresh, matching Thor: Ragnarok and Shang-Chi.

• Top MCU Films: Black Panther (96%), Avengers: Endgame (94%), Iron Man (94%), Spider-Man: No Way Home (93%), and Guardians of the Galaxy (92%) lead.

• Critical Praise: Lauded for retro visuals, cast chemistry, and Michael Giacchino’s score; script and CGI draw minor criticism.

• Historic Feat: Only non-sequel in the MCU’s all-time Top 20, per X posts, highlighting its standalone appeal.

• Phase Six Impact: Ties Thunderbolts* (88%), signaling a critical resurgence for Marvel’s Phase Six.

Is This a New Golden Age for Marvel?

Landing among the MCU’s top-rated films, The Fantastic Four: First Steps proves Marvel can still deliver critically acclaimed hits.

Its 88% Rotten Tomatoes score places it in elite company, outshining past Fantastic Four failures and rivaling the franchise’s best.

Some Closing Thoughts:

As it hits theaters on July 25, 2025, its critical success sets high expectations for its cultural and commercial impact.

Could this be the start of a new golden age for the MCU? Only time, and more reviews, will tell.

Stay tuned to this space for more updates on this flick.