“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Ending Explained: What Are Franklin’s Powers?

Marvel’s “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Ending Unveiled

Marvel fans have been on the edge of their seats as they witness the dramatic conclusion of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” The movie, which hit theatres on July 24th, follows the journey of Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), as they grapple with their newfound superpowers after exposure to radiation during a space mission. However, this time around, the Fantastic Four faces their most formidable adversary yet: Galactus, a godlike entity notorious for obliterating planets by devouring them. The film delves into Galactus’ backstory, revealing a tragic curse that drives him to consume planets due to an insatiable hunger that plagues him. Supported by his ally, the Herald (Julia Garner), or the Silver Surfer, who assists him in selecting planets for their vitality and life-sustaining qualities.

In a chilling twist, Galactus presents a harrowing ultimatum to Sue, who is pregnant with a powerful baby named Franklin. He demands the unborn child in exchange for sparing Earth from destruction. The Fantastic Four defiantly reject the offer, provoking Galactus’ wrath, as he sets out to annihilate both Earth and claim Sue’s child. As the team evades Galactus and the Herald, Sue goes into labor, giving birth to baby Franklin. The somber task of informing humanity that Galactus is approaching to terminate all life falls upon the shoulders of the Fantastic Four.

The film unfolds with high stakes, as Reed devises a plan to relocate Earth through the use of a teleportation device he developed earlier in the story. The team collaborates with governments worldwide to construct a network of giant teleportation bridges spanning the globe, with the intention of moving Earth to a different part of the universe for survival. However, complications ensue when the Herald intervenes, destroying all bridges except one safeguarded by the Fantastic Four in New York City.

Johnny encounters the Herald, decoding her language and uncovering her tragic past entwined with Galactus. Named Shalla-Bal, she had pledged allegiance to Galactus in exchange for sparing her home planet, a decision that led to profound remorse and sorrow. Subsequently, she departs from Earth, reflecting on her past choices and the impact on countless worlds.

In the climactic showdown, the Fantastic Four pivot to a daring strategy to ensnare Galactus and transport him to the far reaches of the universe, requiring baby Franklin as bait. Sue grapples with the weight of sacrificing her child for the greater good, culminating in a poignant and heroic act as she confronts Galactus. Tragedy strikes as Sue sacrifices herself, with Johnny ultimately sacrificing his life to thwart Galactus and protect Earth, showcasing themes of selflessness and heroism.

The film concludes with an emotionally charged moment as Franklin, upon being placed on his mother by Reed, astonishingly revives Sue, underscoring the immense power he possesses. The narrative sets the stage for future developments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, heralding the arrival of a formidable hero in Franklin. The mid-credits scene tantalizes audiences with a glimpse into the future, hinting at the return of the Fantastic Four in “Avengers: Doomsday” in 2026, setting the stage for more thrilling adventures and collaborations with iconic Marvel characters.

As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the Fantastic Four saga, the film’s blend of action-packed sequences, emotional depth, and revelations about the characters’ resilience and sacrifice leave a lasting impact. The film’s ending not only resolves key plotlines but also paves the way for new narratives and character arcs, ensuring that the legacy of the Fantastic Four endures in the hearts of fans worldwide.