Another year, another hype cycle for some hopefully good superhero movies, but online discourse always needs to complain about something… Yes, we’ve finally had a good look at both James Gunn’s Superman and Matt Shakman’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps, marking the introduction of Marvel’s most iconic family to the MCU, and the Internet’s first reaction was to begin comparing and complaining.
As soon as the new Fantastic Four trailer dropped, X (formerly Twitter) was ablaze with posts calling out Marvel’s cinematography or set design, whilst others did the same towards DC’s universe refresh with Superman, taking issue with its color grading or shot composition. I didn’t think it’d need to be said in 2025 – but we can enjoy both! If anything, I think that they compliment each other, and perhaps both make up for each other’s potential shortcomings.
The common praise thrown towards Superman over Fantastic Four is how the visuals of the DC flick look much more dynamic, with both brighter colours and darker scenes, along with some creative lens choices during action sequences, making the whole thing pop. However, Fantastic Four still contains some incredible visual moments in its trailer. Take a look at how Johnny Storm’s Human Torch and his long flaming trail display markings on the lens of the camera, as if it’s actually being recorded by hand in mid-air. You can also just admire how incredible the preview of Galactus is, with the studio choosing to highlight his gargantuan size in this teaser by focusing on his shadow. It’s great work!
Sure, we all have a favorite, but both Superman and Fantastic Four represent great things from their original source material, and it’s a shame to see nerd tribalism take over what could be a very enjoyable back-to-back of comic blockbusters this summer. It’s cool to have a preference, but don’t forget it is also possible to enjoy both, even if one seems better to you than the other. With the current trend of superhero movies, who knows if either will actually live up to the hype anyway?
Do you have a preference between our first look at Superman and The Fantastic Four: First Steps? Will you be enjoying both films, or are you firmly set in one camp? Sound off in the comments below, and keep your eyes on FlickLuster for more movie discussion and news!
