After 17 Years, *Fantastic Four: First Steps* Fixes MCU's Biggest Flaw

A New Era for the MCU with a Nod to Jack Kirby

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been around since 2008, when Iron Man first introduced audiences to the world of superheroes. Over the past 17 years, the franchise has grown into an expansive universe filled with countless characters and stories. However, one element that has always been missing is a more significant presence of Jack Kirby, the legendary comic book artist who played a pivotal role in shaping the Marvel Universe.

Kirby, often referred to as the "King of Comics," was a co-creator of many iconic Marvel characters, including the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, and the Avengers. His unique style—marked by bold, dynamic visuals and a sense of boundless imagination—has influenced generations of artists and storytellers. Despite his immense contributions, Kirby’s legacy has often been overshadowed by Stan Lee, who is more commonly associated with the Marvel brand.

This lack of recognition has long been a point of frustration for fans, especially those who grew up admiring Kirby’s work. For many, it feels like the MCU has missed numerous opportunities to honor the artist who helped build the foundation of the entire Marvel universe.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps – A Tribute to Kirby

All of that changed with the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which finally brings Jack Kirby’s vision to the big screen in a way that feels authentic and respectful. The film is not only a thrilling addition to the MCU but also a heartfelt tribute to the man whose creative genius shaped the very essence of the Marvel Universe.

From the moment the movie begins, it's clear that Kirby’s influence is everywhere. The design of the Fantastic Four’s home reality, Earth-828, is a direct nod to Kirby’s birthday, August 28. Even the final words of the film feature a quote from Kirby himself, reinforcing the deep connection between the story and its creator.

Another standout element is the character of Rachel Rozman, portrayed by Natasha Lyonne. Her name is a tribute to Roz Kirby, Jack Kirby’s wife, further emphasizing the personal touch that went into the film.

A Visionary's Legacy

Jack Kirby’s impact on the world of comics cannot be overstated. His work revolutionized the visual language of comics, introducing a new level of energy, scale, and storytelling that set the tone for the early Marvel Universe. Yet, despite his contributions, Kirby often found himself at odds with Stan Lee, who was known for taking credit for ideas that were originally Kirby’s.

This tension led to disputes over creative ownership, with Kirby even filing a lawsuit against Marvel, which was eventually settled. While the details of these conflicts remain unclear, there is no doubt that Kirby’s legacy deserves more recognition than it has received over the years.

Embracing the True Spirit of Marvel

The Fantastic Four: First Steps stands out as a rare example of the MCU fully embracing the spirit of Marvel Comics. The film captures the eccentric, epic sci-fi designs that are synonymous with Kirby’s work, particularly in the portrayal of Galactus and Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing. The character’s cheerful yet gruff personality reflects Kirby’s own sense of humor and values, while his Jewish heritage—rooted in Kirby’s own background as Jacob Kurtzberg—is also highlighted.

For fans of comics and the MCU, this is a long-overdue acknowledgment of Kirby’s importance. It’s a refreshing departure from previous attempts to pay homage to the artist, which often amounted to little more than a name in the credits.

Looking Ahead

With The Fantastic Four: First Steps now in theaters, it marks the beginning of Marvel Phase 6. This film offers a glimpse into what the future of the MCU could look like if it continues to draw inspiration from the rich history of Marvel Comics.

While expectations for upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars remain high, there is a renewed sense of hope that the franchise can continue to evolve by embracing the true legacy of its characters and creators.

For fans of Jack Kirby and the Marvel Universe, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is more than just a movie—it’s a celebration of the visionary who helped shape the world of comics and superheroes.