Far from perfect, but better than the first film

Rating: 7/10 (31 March 2011)

When it comes to the first Fantastic Four, I didn't hate it or anything but in more ways than one it could have been better as well. This sequel is an improvement in quite a few ways, but hampered by some of the flaws of the first film.
The story had a great idea, had great potential and started off very well indeed. But in the middle I think it slackened in the pace and the story became less interesting and rather repetitive as a result. Also the film does have some cheesy and cringe-worthy dialogue especially in the one-liners, Reed and Doom unfortunately getting the worst of the lot.
However, as I've said, there are several improvements. First and foremost, Silver Surfer. Silver Surfer alone is a more interesting character than any of the characters in the first movie, with a great design and performed just as impressively by the talented Laurence Fishburne. The special effects are incredible and greater in scope than the first, and the scenery is beautifully realised and perfectly captured by the crisp photography. Doom while having some bad lines is more intriguing here and developed and incorporated much better, and Julian McMahon's performance is deliciously evil and camp. Tim Story's direction is much more assured this time round too, John Ottman's score fits better here as well and the overall is shorter and better rounded off with a more exciting and less long-winded climax. The acting in general has also improved, while they are still the weak links in the cast Ioan Gruffodd and Jessica Alba's chemistry feels more natural and both feel more relaxed in their roles too. Michael Chiklis acquits himself even better, and Chris Evans provides the film's most amusing moments.
All in all, imperfect but improved sequel. 7/10 Bethany Cox