“FANTASTIC FOUR” – 4 FANTASTIC AND EXCITING STORIES TO READ

Marvel‘s first family have returned! After a long hiatus, “Fantastic Four: First Steps” brings Reed, Sue, Johnny and Ben back to movie theaters. With much of pop culture getting re-introduced to them, there is big pressure on this film to succeed. Anything less than a blockbuster smash won’t cut it.

This is a “Super-fantastic” month for fans as FF compliments the set-up form DC Studios lead. “Superman” has been crushing expectations at movie theaters. Another factor that’s now getting mentioned is the COMIC effect.

Multiple stores are reporting fans are coming in and buying new AND old issues. It’s a refreshing way of seeing the massive wins trickle down to the foundation of the characters. Everything starts at the comic shops.

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Something to always remember: when one comic movie does well, that’s a win for EVERYBODY! It’s a safe bet that fans will be checking out stories for the first time after July 25th. With 64 years of adventures available, there’s much to choose form.

The Fantastic Four is a great franchise that covers many areas of the Marvel Comic Universe. Here are some recommendations to check out after you watch the movie.

FANTASTIC FOUR #48-50 (1966)

Creative team: Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Joe Sinnott Sam Rosen and Artie Simek

If you’re looking for where the source material came from for the film, here you go. This story is very iconic for multiple reasons. Fans were introduced to one of the most feared characters in comics. The introduction was designed by a man who warranted the nickname “King”. Jack Kirby’s layouts instantly created a sense of impending doom. GALACTUS made waves and gave the Fantastic Four a real cosmic level threat.

The story also introduced fans to a silver covered soul with conflictions. Norrin Radd came crashing through the cosmos. Fans were mesmerized by the Silver Surfer! Watching his perception of humanity change became a catalyst to save the planet.

Along with a few other points, this story is an instant crowd pleaser. I suggest trying to find a reprint or Marvel Unlimited to check it out. Mint copies are a bit costly and very rare.

FANTASTIC FOUR: FULL CIRCLE (2022)

Creative Team: Alex Ross, Ariana Maher and Josh Johnson (Abrams Books/Marvel Arts)

Don’t adjust your eyes. This story ties back to #51 from 1966. It’s a modern retelling of events that carries a deep throwback feel. Comic fans know Alex Ross from his painted art. For this book, he attempts a new style of pencil and color. The result is a smash hit. It takes the best part of the Lee/Kirby era and hits every check mark.

A stranger shows up at the Baxter Building. He is one that is all too familiar with Ben Grimm. This time around, the man serves a more sinister purpose. From here, everything goes completely off the rails. What starts in New York City winds up in the Negative Zone and back?! There is a solid amount of sci-fi injected into the book.

“Full Circle” brings readers back into a timeless era where anything and everything is possible. For the art alone, this is one not to miss.

FANTASTIC FOUR: “HEREAFTER” (2004 #509-513)

Creative Team: Mark Waid, Mike Wieringo, Karl Kesel, Paul Mounts, Randy Gentile and Paul Smith

One of the most best runs of Fantastic Four (imo) is Mark Waid and the late Mike Wieringo. Two of the best superhero storytellers ever to do comics. Seeing them on a book like FF was magic. There were a few choices to pick form but “Hereafter” is the one that pushes limits.

Ben Grimm is dead. Reed refuses to accept his best friend is gone. This pushes the family to try one last attempt to save him. The Four go somewhere that they never ventured before. Reed, Sue and Johnny brave the afterlife!

It is a testament to their family bond. The results of the actions show readers why there is no such thing as impossible. The fallout brings the heroes into another unexpected space. Due to recent events, they have lost public favor. There is much vintage moments with the friendship of Spider-Man and the Human Torch to balance out the drama. This is a small story that packs quite the punch.

FANTASTIC FOUR #13 (2022)

Creative Team: Ryan North, Iban Coello, Jesus Aburtov, and Joe Caramagna (Cover: Alex Ross)

Last but certainly not least, You can’t have an FF list without Doctor Doom on it! There is plenty of Doom tales to choose from.

For my list, I want to highlight someone who’s been making a huge impact of the first family’s lives. Ryan North has been embracing the quirky, weird aspects of the family during his issues. This one is pretty self explanatory.

Doom has a Doom Dinosaur!

North brings the concept of parallel universes into play. Factoring in Dinos & humans gives the story some drama. Where this issue finds its’ strength is in Doom. Seeing the ruler of Latveria take control of the situation is one thing. Watching Ben Grimm manipulate the situation in his favor is another.

The result is a trippy and exciting showcase of creativity. Seeing the Avengers struggle to defeat a dino Fantastic Four is a solid image. It also demonstrates my thoughts on Grimm being the conscience of the comics Universe. How he maneuvers in this standoff is vintage superhero ethics. There’s no way you can finish this issue without smiling.

That’s only 4 stories in a 60 year span. What are some of your favorite Fantastic Four stories? Let me know what your thoughts in the comments below! Enjoy the film and as always, Thanks for reading! CLICK HERE FOR MORE CONTENT FROM KEN