geek'd
After a turbulent production and much public outcry from fans over leaked pics and character designs, what can movie-goers really expect from this release? Well, I think it’s fair to say that the movie has been unfairly reviewed by most critic sites. I still don’t think that most well intentioned reviewers actually “get” the comic book movie. If it’s not your formulaic super hero beat down, then it just doesn’t compute. But this isn’t your daddy’s F4. This is loosely based on the popular comic reboot, Ultimate Fantastic Four. Of course, many liberties were taken with even that material which completely reimagined Marvel’s first family. So, if you decide to catch the flick, see it for what it is: Something new.
What works? Casting is a winner. The characters are generally well acted and the chemistry is good. Dialogue and story is a bit unfocused and soft. The plot is a believable enough scenario and the first 2 acts are mostly adequate to setting up the final confrontation. But that’s where it really falls flat.
The third act is way too brief and quick in its resolution, so we didn’t leave with a feeling of satisfaction or enjoyment. Even the enjoyment of seeing the new heroes try out their powers for the first time is brushed away with a “1 year later” kind of segue, stealing a huge opportunity for us to see them come into their own. A huge opportunity for character development and team building was lost here, and the attempt in act 3 to get it back was too weak to carry the conclusion.
So, is it worth your $10. No, but I’d easily pay $5 and catch it in an early matinee.
I hope they expand on this world, it really has some potential but they need to add a little charisma and pump up the VFX budget to adequately make this thing “fantastic”.
