Linda Thomas: at the movies

Fantastic Four
Rating: PG - 13

Overall rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Best for Ages: 13+

Ages 3 - 7: Red
Ages 8 - 12: Red
Ages 13 - 17:Green
Violence Amount: Green
Violence Portrayal: Green
Fear: Yellow
Illegal / Harmful: Green
Language: Green
Nudity: Green
Sex: Green
Review:
Marvel's first comic series of superheroes comes to the big screen. Through a mishap in space, five individuals develop superpowers. Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic can stretch his body to any shape. Susan Storm/the Invisible Girl (Jessica Alba) can become invisible. Her brother, Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Chris Evans) can make flames appear from his fingertips. Ben Grimm/the Thing (Michael Chiklis) is a grotesque but very strong creature. There are humorous moments as each of the characters learns how to use their new powers. There is also a rich, power-seeking character that wants to control the world. The good guys must battle the bad guy to make the world a safer place to live. The movie is action packed and humorous but not as well done overall as the "X Men" movies. It starts out slowly but it improves as we learn to care about some of the characters. There are intense action sequences and some suggestive content. It's fun for younger audiences that enjoy the superhero movies. Chris Evans is particularly entertaining as "act before you think" Johnny Storm. Michael Chiklis is also good as the creature that can't touch anything without breaking it. This movie should be entertaining for children, and families with children, ages 13 and up. What makes Johnny seem so immature? What character traits does Doom display to make you think that he is evil? Does Ben make his final decision about being the Thing for the good of himself or for the good of others?