All 5 ‘Fantastic Four’ Movies Ranked (Including ‘First Steps’)

Marvel’s First Family, the Fantastic Four, has had a rocky journey on the big screen. From an unreleased low-budget attempt to a glossy MCU reboot, each film offers something unique, whether it’s cheesy charm or high-stakes action. With five movies to consider, including the latest ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’, I’m diving into what makes each one stand out—or fall flat.

This ranking explores the highs and lows of the Fantastic Four’s cinematic history. Under each film, I’ll break down what worked, what didn’t, and why they land where they do. Let’s start from the bottom and work our way to the top.

The Fantastic Four (1994)

This film never saw an official release, but it’s a quirky piece of superhero history. Produced on a tiny budget by Roger Corman, it was made to hold onto the film rights rather than to dazzle audiences. The story follows the team—Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm—gaining powers from cosmic rays and facing off against Doctor Doom.

Despite its low production values, the film has a scrappy charm that comic fans might appreciate. The costumes are basic, and the effects are dated, but it sticks close to the source material. It’s more of a curiosity than a classic, lacking polish but showing heart in its attempt to bring the team to life.

Fantastic Four (2015)

Known as ‘Fant4stic’, this reboot aimed for a darker, more grounded take on the Fantastic Four. The team, played by Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Michael B. Jordan, and Jamie Bell, explores an alternate dimension, gaining powers in a tragic accident. Doctor Doom, reimagined as a rogue hacker, becomes their foe.

The film starts with promise, focusing on the horror of their transformations, but it unravels in the second half. Behind-the-scenes issues led to a rushed, messy climax that feels disconnected from the setup. Despite a talented cast, the grim tone and weak script make it a forgettable entry.

Fantastic Four (2005)

Tim Story’s first crack at the Fantastic Four brought a lighter, more family-friendly vibe. Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, and Michael Chiklis star as the team, who gain powers after a space mission goes wrong. Julian McMahon’s Doctor Doom is a corporate villain with a comic-accurate look.

The film leans into humor and heart, with decent chemistry among the cast. However, the pacing feels slow, and the action lacks punch. It’s gained a nostalgic following over time, but it doesn’t fully capture the team’s cosmic grandeur, making it a solid but unremarkable effort.

Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)

The sequel to the 2005 film ups the stakes with the arrival of the Silver Surfer, voiced by Laurence Fishburne and performed by Doug Jones. The team faces a cosmic threat in Galactus, depicted as a controversial cloud rather than a towering figure. The core cast returns, with more polish this time.

The action scenes, like the Human Torch chasing the Surfer, are thrilling, and the team’s dynamic feels tighter. While the Galactus choice disappointed fans, the film balances adventure and family drama well. It’s a step up from the first, delivering fun despite its flaws.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)

The MCU’s take on the Fantastic Four is a vibrant, retro-futuristic triumph. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach shine as Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben, facing the planet-eating Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, and his herald, Silver Surfer, portrayed by Julia Garner. Directed by Matt Shakman, it skips the origin story for a fresh adventure.

The chemistry among the cast is electric, and the 1960s-inspired world pops with color and optimism. Michael Giacchino’s score elevates every moment, from quiet family scenes to epic battles. It’s a bold, heartfelt film that finally does Marvel’s First Family justice, setting a high bar for the MCU’s future.

Which Fantastic Four film is your favorite, or do you think another deserves a spot? Drop your thoughts in the comments!