MCU Ends 20-Year Curse of a Fantastic Four Character

The MCU's Resolution of a Longstanding Fantastic Four Curse

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has finally addressed a longstanding issue that has plagued one of its most iconic characters, The Thing, for over two decades. This resolution comes in the form of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, a 2025 film that has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike. With stellar reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, this movie marks a significant return for the Marvel superhero team, bringing them back to the big screen in a major way.

After years of varied attempts to bring the Fantastic Four to life on the silver screen, The Fantastic Four: First Steps not only introduces the titular group but also includes key figures such as Franklin Richards and Galactus. More importantly, the film breaks a long-standing curse that has defined The Thing’s portrayal in live-action media for decades.

A Tragic Portrayal of The Thing

Throughout his movie history, The Thing—Ben Grimm—has often been depicted as a deeply tragic character. This focus on tragedy is understandable, given that both the 2005 and 2015 Fantastic Four films were origin stories. These movies centered on Ben’s struggles with his transformation into a rock-like being, emphasizing the emotional toll it took on him.

In the 2005 film, there are moments where the movie attempts to use The Thing’s appearance for comedic relief, but these scenes often fall flat. They are interspersed with emotionally heavy moments, such as his fiancée breaking up with him due to his new look and his inability to pick up her ring with his transformed hands. These juxtapositions create an awkward tone that doesn’t quite land.

The 2015 version of Fantastic Four avoided making fun of The Thing’s transformation but instead leaned heavily into the sadness of his story. In this version, Ben is transformed against his will and is soon abandoned by his best friend, Reed Richards. While the film hints at a more balanced portrayal of The Thing, the majority of the movie focuses on his sorrow, even reworking his famous “clobbering time” catchphrase to reflect a more tragic backstory.

A New Light for The Thing in First Steps

The Fantastic Four: First Steps offers a fresh perspective on The Thing by showcasing a version of Ben Grimm who has lived with his transformation for several years. Rather than focusing on his struggles, the film emphasizes his comfort and acceptance of his new identity.

There are moments in the movie where The Thing casually shaves with an angle grinder or makes pasta alongside HERBIE, demonstrating how he has adapted to his life. These scenes highlight his ability to enjoy everyday activities, even if he occasionally experiences moments of doubt.

Additionally, the film shows Ben being revered as a superhero, with children cheering for him and wearing The Thing masks. This shift from a somber, tragic figure to a respected hero is a welcome change and reflects a more balanced depiction of the character.

The Impact of Past Films on the MCU

The success of the superhero genre has led to a shift in how origin stories are handled. Films like Spider-Man: Homecoming and the 2025 Superman have shown that explaining a character’s origin is no longer necessary. This trend has influenced the approach taken in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, allowing the film to focus on different aspects of Ben Grimm’s character rather than rehashing his initial transformation.

Past Fantastic Four films, which explored Ben’s horror at his transformation, have already covered this ground. As a result, First Steps can move beyond this narrative and explore other facets of The Thing’s personality. His wit and charm, which have been overlooked in previous adaptations, are now central to his portrayal.

This new approach allows audiences to understand The Thing in a more nuanced way, highlighting his strengths and complexities without needing to constantly emphasize the trauma of his transformation. It’s clear that being turned into a rock-like being would be stressful, but the film avoids dwelling on this aspect excessively. Instead, it presents a more rounded and engaging portrayal of one of Marvel’s most beloved characters.