Marvel fans have double reasons to celebrate as The Fantastic Four: First Steps has achieved the exact same impressive Rotten Tomatoes score as Thunderbolts*. Both superhero blockbusters are proving that the MCU is back on track with stellar performances and captivating storytelling.
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Fantastic Four First Steps: The Numbers Speak Volumes
Released on July 25, 2025, The Fantastic Four: First Steps starring Pedro Pascal has garnered identical ratings to the Sebastian Stan and Florence Pugh-led Thunderbolts*, which hit theaters on May 2, 2025.
Rotten Tomatoes Score Breakdown
| Movie | Critics Score | Audience Score | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Fantastic Four: First Steps | 88% | 93% | July 25, 2025 |
| Thunderbolts* | 88% | 93% | May 2, 2025 |
These exceptional ratings demonstrate that both films have successfully captured both critical acclaim and audience appreciation, marking a significant comeback for Marvel Studios.
Marvel’s Remarkable Recovery
After facing criticism for previous releases like Thor: Love and Thunder and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Marvel has orchestrated an impressive turnaround. The studio’s strategic focus on compelling narratives and fresh talent is clearly paying off.
The success of both films highlights Marvel’s renewed commitment to quality storytelling. Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby have brought fresh energy to the Fantastic Four franchise, while the Thunderbolts cast has been praised for their chemistry and performances.
For more insights on Marvel’s evolution, check out our comprehensive Marvel Universe coverage where we analyze the latest developments in superhero cinema.
What Makes These Films Special
Visual Excellence: Fans have particularly praised The Fantastic Four: First Steps for its stunning visual grandeur, with many calling it “the best looking MCU film” to date.
Character Development: Both movies excel in character-driven storytelling, moving away from the over-reliance on spectacle that plagued earlier phases.
Fresh Perspectives: The introduction of new faces like Pedro Pascal and the elevation of characters like Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova has injected new life into the MCU.
The Road to Avengers: Doomsday
According to recent reports, both the Thunderbolts team and the Fantastic Four will join forces with original Avengers members in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. This highly anticipated crossover will feature:
- Chris Hemsworth
- Robert Downey Jr. (returning as Victor Von Doom)
- Tom Hiddleston
- Paul Rudd
- Joseph Quinn
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach
The Thunderbolts cast has already dubbed themselves the “New Avengers,” setting up exciting possibilities for future MCU storylines.
Box Office and Streaming Updates
While The Fantastic Four: First Steps continues its successful theatrical run, Thunderbolts* will soon transition to streaming platforms, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The positive reception of both films suggests that Marvel has successfully recalibrated its approach, focusing on quality over quantity. This strategy appears to be resonating with both critics and audiences worldwide.
Stay updated with the latest superhero movie news and reviews on our Hollywood section, where we cover all major releases and industry developments.
The Future Looks Bright
These matching Rotten Tomatoes scores represent more than just numbers—they symbolize Marvel’s successful return to form. Both films demonstrate that audiences are hungry for well-crafted superhero stories that balance spectacular action with genuine character development.
The success of these releases also validates Marvel’s decision to diversify its roster and explore different corners of the comic book universe. From anti-heroes to first families, the MCU is expanding in exciting new directions.
According to Rotten Tomatoes, both films rank among the highest-rated Marvel releases in recent years, indicating a positive trend for future MCU projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the exact Rotten Tomatoes scores for The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Thunderbolts?
A: Both movies achieved identical scores with 88% from critics on the Tomatoes meter and 93% from audiences on the Popcorn meter, demonstrating exceptional critical and popular appeal.
Q: Will the Fantastic Four and Thunderbolts appear together in future Marvel movies?
A: Yes, according to media reports, both the Thunderbolts team and the Fantastic Four will join original Avengers members in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” to battle Victor Von Doom.
