Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps is finally in theaters, and the early numbers are in. Already, Fantastic Four’s box office projections are soaring, and it looks like Marvel’s First Family is off to a spectacular start. Remarkably, the film’s opening numbers are matching those of James Gunn’s Superman. Moreover, the film is generating strong buzz among both critics and fans. As a result, industry analysts are predicting a highly successful theatrical run. Looking ahead, many believe it could reshape the future of the MCU’s Phase 6.
Fantastic Four’s Box Office Matches Superman’s Success
According to Deadline, current Fantastic Four’s box office predictions indicate a powerful global launch. Specifically, analysts expect the film to earn between $190 million and $210 million worldwide. Meanwhile, domestic earnings in the U.S. and Canada could hit $100 million to $110 million. Taken together, these numbers clearly suggest a strong start for Marvel’s rebooted First Family.
To put that into perspective, Gunn’s Superman scored an impressive $220 million worldwide. In addition, it brought in $125 million domestically during its opening weekend. As a result, when the two films are compared side by side, this places the new Fantastic Four film right alongside Superman in terms of commercial momentum.
Interestingly, the film is on track to outperform the 2015 reboot, which only earned $167.9 million globally during its entire run. This comparison highlights just how much stronger the current release is performing.
Retro Aesthetic Meets Cosmic Stakes
Set against the backdrop of a 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world, The Fantastic Four: First Steps brings a unique visual flair to the MCU. Furthermore, the film is helmed by acclaimed director Matt Shakman and features a star-studded cast:
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing
The official synopsis reads:
“Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.”
How Fantastic Four’s Box Office Impacts the MCU
In addition, it brought in $125 million domestically during its opening weekend. As a result, when the two films are compared side by side, this places the new Fantastic Four film right alongside Superman in terms of commercial momentum.
In addition to its strong debut, Fantastic Four is keeping pace with Superman at the box office. As a result, Marvel is reasserting its dominance in a post-Endgame cinematic landscape that’s been full of uncertainty.
What This Means Moving Forward
Given this impressive start, Marvel might feel encouraged to fast-track sequels or spin-offs related to the Fantastic Four. Moreover, with the movie already being compared to Superman’s triumphant debut, it seems the MCU is once again on stable ground.
Ultimately, whether fans are drawn in by nostalgia, the cast, or the cosmic stakes, one thing remains clear: Fantastic Four’s box office performance is truly living up to the hype—and then some.
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