Joseph Quinn's Best Performance Yet in 2025 War Film Before 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps'

Joseph Quinn’s Rise and the Hidden Gem of 'Warfare'

Joseph Quinn has been making waves in Hollywood since his breakout role as Eddy in Stranger Things. Over the years, he has appeared in major films such as A Quiet Place: Day One, Gladiator II, and now Fantastic Four: First Steps. While he has played a variety of characters—from jokesters to eccentric figures—his most impressive performance to date is arguably his role in Warfare, a film that hasn’t received the attention it deserves.

Warfare was released in April and received critical acclaim, but it didn’t get a wide release or significant box office success. This might explain why many people haven’t yet discovered what could be one of Quinn’s best performances. With his debut as Johnny Storm in First Steps, it's the perfect moment to revisit this underappreciated film and see how Quinn brought depth to his character.

The Real-Life Inspiration Behind 'Warfare'

In Warfare, Quinn plays Sam, a character based on real-life Navy SEAL Joe Hildebrand. The film is inspired by a 2006 incident where a surveillance mission turned into a deadly ambush by Iraqi insurgents. The result was a brutal firefight that left lasting physical and emotional scars.

The film feels more like a vivid historical recreation than a traditional movie, immersing viewers in the real-time chaos of war. Quinn’s performance is central to this authenticity. He portrays the trauma of the event with raw intensity, capturing the horror and tension that define the film. His character’s ear-piercing screams during the ambush are some of the most powerful moments in the movie, effectively conveying the shock and fear of the situation.

Preparing for the Role: A Rigorous Training Program

To fully embody his role, Quinn and the rest of the cast underwent a three-week military boot camp. They trained in weapon handling, military drills, and studied the tactics used in the real mission. Quinn also met with veterans to understand the psychological impact of combat, particularly PTSD. This preparation allowed him to deliver a performance that felt genuine and emotionally charged.

His transition from camaraderie to sheer terror is one of the film’s most striking elements. Quinn captures the sudden shift from normality to chaos, maintaining a sense of fear and anguish throughout the rest of the movie. This commitment to the role highlights his dedication and understanding of the weight behind portraying a real-life event.

The Surprising Link Between 'Warfare' and 'Fantastic Four'

At first glance, Warfare and Fantastic Four: First Steps seem worlds apart. One is a gritty war film, while the other is a vibrant superhero story. However, there are surprising connections between the two projects. Quinn’s experience in Warfare likely helped him prepare for his role as Johnny Storm in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Both films require strong character dynamics and deep emotional range. In Warfare, Quinn formed close bonds with his co-stars, much like he did on the set of First Steps. Director Matt Shakman emphasized the importance of creating a family-like atmosphere on set, which contributed to the chemistry seen on screen. The same kind of bonding occurred during the intense training period for Warfare, where Quinn and his castmates developed genuine relationships that translated into their performances.

Emotional Range and Character Development

Quinn’s portrayal of Sam in Warfare demands a wide emotional range. He starts as a lighthearted soldier enjoying banter with his comrades, only to be thrust into a world of pain and fear after the ambush. His ability to switch from humor to horror within a short time frame is a testament to his skill as an actor.

Similarly, his role as Johnny Storm in First Steps requires balancing comedy and drama. While the Human Torch is known for his playful and naïve nature, Quinn manages to navigate the film’s high-stakes moments with ease. The contrast between the two roles shows his versatility as an actor.

Why 'Warfare' Is a Must-Watch

Despite its lack of mainstream attention, Warfare is a standout film that showcases Quinn’s talent. It carries an important message about the real-life impact of war, and Quinn’s performance ensures that message resonates. For fans of First Steps or his dramatic role in Gladiator II, Warfare is the next step in exploring his acting range.

The film is now available to rent or purchase on VOD services, making it easily accessible for those looking to discover one of Quinn’s most compelling performances. Whether you’re a fan of war dramas or superhero films, Warfare offers a unique and powerful viewing experience.