Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year, a time that should feel like a fresh and hopeful beginning, distinct from the year that came before. “Fantastic Four” doesn’t embody that spirit, though. While the movie markets itself as a fresh start for Marvel’s “First Family,” it’s just the same Marvel Cinematic Universe product with a new coat of paint.
The film is branded as a soft reboot, yet the formula never changes: recycled quips, CGI-heavy battles, and the same factory-line storytelling that has drained Marvel of its novelty. Instead of the excitement of a true new beginning, it feels like déjà vu.
The plot itself is barebones: the Fantastic Four must balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond while defending Earth from Galactus, a ravenous space god, and his herald, the Silver Surfer. They travel to confront Galactus, fail, and then bring the fight back to Earth. To its credit, Michael Giacchino delivers a soaring score and the retro 1960s aesthetic is stylish, but neither can disguise how hollow and empty the story truly feels.
Even the box office reflects this fatigue. With a $266,844,722 domestic gross (52.5%) and $241,394,829 international gross (47.5%), totaling $508,239,551 worldwide (Box Office Mojo), the movie barely broke, even with its massive advertisement budget. Some audiences may have shown up out of loyalty and habit, but the numbers show the average viewer didn’t think it was worth the visit to the theaters.
Perhaps they too saw the movie as a cheap reboot, or worse, a film that lacks meaningful character growth. A good story, whether heroic or tragic, should chart a character’s journey: where they begin, how they’re tested, and what they become. In this movie, however, there is no clear track of growth for the main four.
There are glimmers of growth like Johnny Storm played by Joseph Quinn growing more mature as an uncle or Reed Richards played by Pedro Pascal becoming a more empathetic father. There are even hints of potential arcs, like Ben Grimm played by Ebon Mass-Bachrach wrestling with his new form and Sue Storm played by Vanessa Kirby leaning into motherhood. Ultimately, though, no themes finish developing. Each time momentum builds, the film interrupts itself by cutting away to another set piece.
In just under two hours, the movie is quick and entertaining, but it is undoubtedly missing crucial character beats.
“Fantastic Four” promises a new beginning but plays like the same year on repeat. Rosh Hashanah, however, teaches us that beginnings matter. Starting a new year means committing to reflection, depth, and real change. “Fantastic Four” advertises itself as a new chapter for Marvel, but instead, it offers the illusion of change without the substance. It’s not a fresh start— it’s the same meal reheated and served again.
