I really enjoyed this one.

Rating: 8/10 (10 July 2005)

The Fantastic Four was my favorite title by far back in my comic collecting days. When I left the theater after seeing this film, I felt satisfied that the characters and integrity of the Fantastic Four legend were left intact. This film is basically the "origin" story put to film, so a lot is packed into it. Readers of the comic will notice some creative license taken with the origin, but I think what was done for the film works fine. The origin was changed to bring it up to the times (if you want to know what I mean, find a copy of the comic book origin and compare). Character development is thin, and there could have been more buildup to the climax, but this is not Shakespeare ... it's an entertaining live action comic book.
I'm grateful that the humor, pathos and nobility of the characters has been retained for this film. The film actually has heart, not just special effects. Hopefully it will find a sufficient audience to warrant a sequel. Now that the origin is laid out, a sequel would allow for further character and plot development.
Michael Chiklis should be especially commended for bringing a Marvel Comics icon to life splendidly.