Movie Overview
- The highly anticipated MCU film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, promises a fresh take on the beloved characters.
- Joseph Quinn, cast as Johnny Storm, indicates his character will exhibit greater self-awareness and less flirtation.
- Despite changes, fans can look forward to Johnny maintaining his signature traits of humor, loyalty, bravery, and personal growth throughout the film.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to be one of Marvel Studios’ standout releases this year. As the film inches closer to its premiere, cast members are actively teasing intriguing aspects of their character portrayals, highlighting a shift toward a more contemporary interpretation.
Initially revealed by Kevin Feige in July 2019, this film, directed by Matt Shakman, is finally nearing its debut after a lengthy six-year wait. The film features an impressive lineup: Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (The Thing). During a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, the cast provided insights into their roles and hinted at a reimagined take on their characters.
Joseph Quinn specifically hinted at a more nuanced portrayal of Johnny Storm, stating that the character will be confident yet humorous. He expressed that he collaborated closely with Marvel Studios President in crafting this new iteration, ensuring it resonates with today’s cultural landscape. Quinn elaborated, saying:
“He was branded as this womanizing, devil-may-care guy, but is that sexy these days? I don’t think so. This version of Johnny is less callous with other people’s feelings, and hopefully, there’s a self-awareness about what’s driving that attention-seeking behavior.”
Striking a Balance: Preserving Johnny Storm’s Key Traits
Previously, Chris Evans portrayed Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four films released in 2005 and 2007, earning praise for his vibrant character portrayal. Notably, he is also recognized for his iconic role as Captain America in the MCU. Fans were thrilled when he made a surprising return to the role of Johnny in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024). Many admired Evans for successfully embodying Johnny’s adventurous and cocky demeanor.
As the narrative evolves, Shakman noted that the new film will emphasize Johnny’s intellect, declaring him to be “really smart.”This twist adds depth to his role, depicting him as a vital part of the Fantastic Four’s missions involving cosmic radiation and the exploration of space. Shakman mentioned, “He’s among the most heroic in the team but tends to undercut his heroism through humor.” The filmmaker highlighted the shared connection between Johnny and Sue, emphasizing their close-knit relationship as siblings.
The direction hinted at by Quinn suggests a characterization of Johnny that aligns with modern sensibilities, potentially toning down older, more problematic traits such as reckless behavior and excessive flirtation. Traditionally depicted as a ladies’ man, some elements of Johnny’s past persona may be adapted to better fit a contemporary audience.
However, while it’s essential to address these dated characteristics, retaining Johnny’s light-hearted humor is crucial. His overconfidence often leads to comical situations, adding an entertaining layer to his character. Moreover, Johnny’s fierce loyalty, courage in adversity, and potential for growth remain central to his identity. The film could effectively harness these pivotal aspects while ensuring his humor remains intact, as it’s a quality fans cherish.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is scheduled for theatrical release on July 25, 2025.
Source: Entertainment Weekly