Despite the release of multiple trailers and the upcoming debut of The Fantastic Four: First Steps in just three months, one major question remained: what would Reed Richards’ powers look like on screen? Fans had speculated that the visual effects might not be ready or that Reed’s powers might differ from his family’s, possibly tied to the arrival of Galactus. However, the latest trailer finally revealed Reed’s abilities in action, confirming he has his iconic stretching power. This moment not only settled the mystery but also helped explain why Marvel waited so long to showcase it.
Setting the Stage for Reed’s Powers
The film’s director, Matt Shakman, has emphasized his desire to focus on the characters and their family dynamic, intentionally downplaying the role of iconic villains like Doctor Doom. Shakman explained in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that the initial trailers aimed to immerse the audience in the 1960s-inspired world of the Fantastic Four. This retro-futuristic setting, complete with flying cars and a utopian atmosphere, is a bold choice for Marvel, setting the tone for the movie’s unique visual style.
Shakman described the aesthetic as a blend of Kirby and Kubrick, referencing comic legend Jack Kirby and film director Stanley Kubrick. This distinctive style was essential to building a world that feels deeply connected to the characters. Given that the film’s setting is likely to be destroyed by the end, it was crucial for audiences to feel emotionally invested in it.
The Powers Fit the Aesthetic
The first trailers aimed to ease the audience into this new world, showing how the characters—especially Reed—have shaped it. With the world so heavily tied to the 60s aesthetic, Reed’s stretching powers were always going to look a little out of place. Stretching isn’t a common superpower in cinema, especially compared to more visually striking abilities like Ms. Marvel’s energy powers. However, because the film’s visual language is quirky and playful, Reed’s stretching fits right in.
How Reed’s Powers Will Be Used Matters Most
While the new trailer showed Reed stretching to avoid falling debris from a collapsing building, the real test of his powers will be how they’re used throughout the film. Fans may still debate whether the visual effects look realistic enough, but the key to Reed’s powers will be their functionality. If Reed uses his abilities in practical, innovative ways—such as helping his team navigate dangerous situations—it will be far more impressive than simply showcasing the CGI.
For example, in the trailer, Reed uses his powers to maneuver through a crumbling building, something the other characters couldn’t do. Johnny Storm (played by Joseph Quinn) could fly, Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) could create a force field, and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) could endure the hits, but none of them could perform the same agile acrobatics Reed does. This unique use of his powers will be what sets him apart—not just the visuals.
Keeping the Powers a Secret Was a Smart Move
Marvel’s decision to keep Reed’s powers under wraps until now has proven to be a smart strategy. The audience is now fully engaged with the characters and their world, making Reed’s powers feel like a natural extension of his persona, rather than a gimmick. As a result, when the powers are used on screen, they will feel like an organic part of the story rather than just another CGI spectacle.
In the end, the long wait to reveal Reed’s abilities has paid off. Fans are now ready to appreciate his powers not just for their visual effects, but for how they enhance his character and make him truly unique within the team. The Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to offer more than just impressive visuals—it’s about showing how Reed’s powers define him as a hero.
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