Ring The Alarm! Here Are the Most Anticipated K-Pop Comebacks of 2025

In case you haven’t heard, many popular films from the 90’s and 2000s are getting sequels and reboots, a trend that’s currently taking over today’s cinema landscape. From the action-packed “Tron: Ares” and “Karate Kid: Legends” to upcoming romcoms and comedy dramas “My Best Friend's Wedding” and “The Devil Wears Prada,” we’re seeing some of our favorite actors return to the big screen, reprising roles we loved and admired growing up. 

One of which is Disney’s “Freakier Friday,” the sequel to the 2003 family classic “Freaky Friday.” Ever since Lindsay Lohan made an amazing comeback to Hollywood with a string of Netflix movies, we just knew that there was no way Disney wasn’t going to tap her for a project. After all, the actress made her feature film debut in the 1998 classic, “The Parent Trap.” Little did we know that the House of Mouse had something much freakier in store. And we’re so not complaining!

Directed by Nisha Ganatra and written by Jordan Weiss, this comedy FREAKquel brings back Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan as mother-daughter Tess and Anna Coleman. This time around, they’re joined by Harper (Julia Butters), who plays Anna’s 15-year-old daughter, Lily (Sophia Hammons), her soon-to-be stepdaughter, and Manny Jacinto, who plays her fiancé, Eric Davies. Some of the cast from the first film are also making a comeback, including Mark Harmon as Ryan and heartthrob Chad Michael Murray as Jake. 

The story follows Anna, now 36, who is co-parenting her daughter with Tess, and meets a dashing single dad with whom she falls in love. They decided to get married after six months, which caused some issues with their daughters, who hate each other. At Anna’s bachelorette’s party, the four leading ladies met with a psychic and, in “Freaky Friday” tradition, she gave them an ominous message that turned their worlds upside down. 

The Beat Manila got to attend a special advanced screening of the film last Aug. 5 at the SM Mall of Asia, which was preceded by an exciting fan event with Manny Jacinto.

Heads up! Spoilers ahead.

Safe to say the movie did the first film justice, and was brimming with comedy gold, heartfelt family moments, and great acting. We have to admit that we were a little skeptical about the four-way body swap, as we had hoped for Anna and Tess to switch again, but woven together with the storyline, it made sense. 

It gave the film a fresh take and managed to be relevant to the times, having kept up with Gen Z trends that made millennials, Gen X, and other generations in between and beyond, laugh out loud. 

Relatable, heartfelt, and sprinkled with the Disney comedy magic, we’re here to tell you five moments in the film that gave us déjà vu, and sure, we’ll throw in a recap of Manny’s Manila homecoming, too. 

Do you get Déjà vu? Five Movie Moments that Got Us ROFL

Four Bodies…and a Wedding?

What’s a “Freaky Friday” without a little body swapping action, right? In this film, things get freakier when Anna and Tess switch places with Harper and Lily. Imagine Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis playing 15-year-olds while Julia and Sophia step into the shoes of much older women. As seen in the trailer, the girls also did a jolt, similar to what Anna and Tess did in the first film and had to go out and pretend to be each other for a day. 

The result- comedy gold! We especially enjoyed that morning scene when Lily (now in Tess’ body) faced the mirror and screamed, “I’m bloody decomposing!” or the montage of Anna and Tess (now in Harper and Lily’s bodies) stuffing their faces with fast food because who needs to worry about calories when you’re young? We believe this particular aspect of the film—the generation gaps and inside jokes—was what made it so funny and relatable. 

One other similarity is how the story revolved around an upcoming wedding. In “Freaky Friday," Tess was about to marry Ryan, and now Anna is walking in her shoes as she prepares to wed Eric—with whom, by the way, she shares extremely cute chemistry—all the while navigating the strain of having to relocate, as Eric and Lily are from England, and doing what’s best for the family. 

Makeover Madness

Nobody can forget the iconic Tess makeover in the first film, and how Anna gave her mom a new look with a spunky new haircut, some piercings, and a wardrobe’s worth of sexy and cool outfits. The good news is we also get that in this film, with Harper and Sophie calling a temporary truce to execute their plan of breaking their parents up. Talk about “The Parent Trap” but reversed! 

They find out about Jake, Anna’s first love, and intend to make him get back together with her. Luckily, he’s in town and the two girls get their plan in motion, starting with a fabulous makeover, which gifted us a fun photoshoot montage. 

Crazy Car Rides

We have to admit that we were excited when we saw that car scene in the trailer, and safe to say it didn’t disappoint! We got to see Jamie and Lindsay, with the latter now riding shotgun as they cruised—well, more like raced—through the streets of L.A. Definitely funnier and crazier than the first time!

Alexa, play “…Baby One More Time!”

Who can forget Chad Michael Murray singing this Britney Spears classic at the top of his lungs outside the Coleman’s house? 

Well, we get to hear this song again, but what’s iconic about it in this sequel is that we get to see Jake gushing over Tess, proving that he never really got over his little crush. And yes, it’s a delight to see him reprising this role. There’s almost an impossible amount of good-looking people in this film, it’s insane! And to think more than half of them were in the 2003 film! 

Speaking of songs, one of the things that made "Freaky Friday" a huge hit is the music. We got some pretty good musical numbers in this, including a stage reunion everyone has been waiting for. We’ll keep it zipped for now and let you enjoy it once you watch the movie. 

Family Drama x 2

Unlike in the first film, which focused more on Tess and Anna’s relationship, we felt that this movie expanded the spotlight to its other characters, giving them just enough backstory and motivations that made the story fuller and more relatable. 

We loved how it didn’t just tackle parent-child tensions but also generational misunderstandings, the emotional strain surrounding weddings and relocation, as well as stepfamily issues. 

Although the story was predictable and felt more like a nostalgic revisit than an original feature, it was equally entertaining and heartfelt as the first. We might even say that was the original intention—to not create an entirely new story, but to ride on the charm of the old one, tweak it to fit the times, and hopefully connect generations. We believe the film did well in that aspect. As fans of the 2003 movie, we enjoyed the predictability, the laughs it pulled out from us, and the return of its familiar characters. 10/10 would recommend watching with the whole family. 

Manny in Manila: The “Freakier Friday” Fan Event

Prior to the screening , the Walt Disney Company and SM Malls gave fans a treat by flying in one of the stars of the film. Manny Jacinto caused quite a stir at the SM Mall of Asia atrium, stealing hearts with his beautiful face (throwing it back to him!) and charming personality. 

Hosted by Sam Oh, the program included a fun trivia game where they gave away some “Freakier Friday” merch, a thrilling dance-off to the movie’s main theme song “HOT TO GO!” by Chappell Roan, and even a special song number by The Voice Kids Season 5 Grand Champion Shane Bernabe, who rocked the house down with her rendition of “Take Me Away” by Pink Slip, a.k.a. Anna’s band from the movie! 

But the highlight of the night was the arrival of Manny, who was surprised by the overflowing love and support from his Filipino fans. 

“Maraming, maraming salamat. Sobrang excited to be here (Thank you very much! I’m so excited to be here)!” He said, showcasing his Tagalog-speaking skills. “This is so much love. It really means the world! Thank you for waiting and for hopefully getting to watch.”

Sam then asked the actor how it felt when he found out that he would become part of a massive global franchise. 

“I called my parents and let them know,” he chuckled. “It was unbelievable. I was going to play a father for the first time. I would have an anak—a little kid of my own for the first time. I didn’t know how to react at first. I just drew upon the experiences of my parents and kind of drew upon those memories. And now, here we are!”

The Filipino-born Canadian actor known for his roles in “The Good Place” and the Star Wars series “The Acolyte” also participated in a couple of rounds of “Pinoy Henyo” (Filipino word guessing game), took some photos with fans, and even gave free hugs. It was truly a memorable moment for the fans and moviegoers alike.   

“Sana panoorin ninyo ang ‘Freakier Friday’ (I hope you guys will watch ‘Freakier Friday’). It’s a fun one, so please watch. Thank you for having me. It’s a dream to be here right now. Thank you so much! Mahal kita (I love you)!”

And the surprises didn’t end there. Manny also dropped by the theater just before the movie started. When asked how it felt to walk into a room full of people about to watch him on the screen, he adorably replied, “It’s cool walking into a theater where people look like me *laughs* Everyone’s so pretty and beautiful! I am so excited. Sana mag enjoy kayo (I hope you enjoy yourselves)!”

Let this movie take you away for a couple of hours. “Freakier Friday” is now showing in a cinema near you! 

Follow Walt Disney Studios on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more Disney movie magic.

Everything starts with a great song. That’s key to having a successful record, according to veteran producer Mark Feist, who has made it his life’s mission to produce music that speaks to people, as well as find and develop artists that have the potential to take over the world stage. 

Known for his incredible body of work with global icons such as Destiny’s Child, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Celine Dion, John Legend, The Spice Girls, Outkast, Brian McKnight, Kelly Rowland, and Regine Velasquez; and a proud nephew of OPM legend Pilita Corrales, the Filipino-Australian label head of HITMAKERS ENTERTAINMENT has flown back to the Philippines, bringing with him a string of exciting musical projects and industry-shaping collaborations. 

The Beat Asia caught up with the multi-platinum producer to chat about his latest single with Filipino-American R&B artist Jay R called “Tunay”—what inspired the track and how he decided on its musical direction.

Our conversation also delved into his musical legacy, what continues to fuel his passion for creating, and how he remains driven to push boundaries in sound and storytelling. He spoke candidly about the main goal of his label: to create relevant, impactful music that resonates with today’s audience while championing the next generation of great artists. 

One of their success stories includes Australian pop artist Tash, who is gearing up for her US tour next year. Having signed on with zero fanbase, Mark and his team were able to help her build a formidable catalog, and is now amassing millions of streams and selling out show tickets like pancakes. 

In line with this, we also touched on the label’s recent partnership with Symphonic Distribution, a leading music technology and services company for independent labels, managers, and artists. The collaboration aims to support future initiatives focused on developing both emerging and established talent from Australia and Southeast Asia.

Hi Mark! Can you tell us a bit about what inspired the sound and message behind your latest track, “Tunay”?

Jay R was the leading force in inspiring the sound. Part of my process is I love to get inside the artist’s head as much as I can and understand where they come from—what inspires them and what musically moves them. Because at the end of the day, the artist has to sell it. How can they sell something they don’t love? 

We spent a lot of time chatting about eras of music. He’s been around for a long time, which is nice since there’s so much to draw from.  

He said he loves the late 90s and early 2000s, which is great, because that’s when I started my career. But at the same time, you have to be careful because it’s a fine line. You don’t want the track to sound dated. But with that era of music, for this generation, is new. The average 19 or 20-year-old doesn’t understand that. I believe music is cyclical. We take from eras, we make adaptations of them with the influence of that. 

In terms of message, being Filipino and understanding that this is Jay R’s biggest market, sticking to just what we know—how, culturally, Filipinos are obsessed with love and things that move them emotionally. When the first version of the record was penned, I told the writer of the lyrics and melody to keep it about love; keep it about a special someone. That’s how it came about.

Speaking of musical eras, “Tunay” truly blends classic R&B with a fresh, local vibe. What made you decide to take this musical direction?

It’s my job as a producer to keep my hand on the pulse. I’m constantly trying to stay on top of what’s working and what’s not. When I sat with Jay R, we took a deep dive into the Filipino artists that are working right now and what’s currently clicking. It doesn’t always translate, but after doing this for as long as I have, I’m pretty good at figuring out how to take those elements and make them work. It was just trying to stay in touch with what’s clicking and finding Jay R’s version of that. 

Jay R can sing anything, and it’s going to sound great. He really is special. But like I say, it's not always about the voice. Everything starts with the song. You have a great song, and you put a great artist on it, that’s lightning in a bottle!

Was there a particular moment during the recording process that stood out to you?

When the record was first written that part with the chant (“Pag-ibig ko'y tunay, sa'yo lang iaalay”) was actually written by an American artist who signed to the label. His name is Mönt Lee, a talented kid from Atlanta. When the demo came back, that Tagalog chant really stood out. 

When you meet an artist for the first time, there’s a little bit of a learning curve. But with Jay R, in the first fifteen minutes there was just a sense of trust and synergy between the artist and the producer. I thought that was a really magical moment because I knew right there and then that we had something special. 

Can you tell us about your label and how artists from this region will benefit from the partnership with Symphonic Distribution?

Artist development is what we really want to be known for. You look at the Top 10 most streamed acts in the world—Bruno Mars is almost 40, The Weeknd, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Justine Bieber. The only two people that are really under 25 are Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter. The problem is that two out of ten artists are nowhere near the demographic of the consumer.

We owe it to ourselves to find the next Michael Jackson or Pilita Corales. If we don’t do that, we fail as humans. Artist development now is a lot harder than it used to be. It’s expensive. It’s costly to put out great music constantly, and that’s the only way to do it. There’s so much music; how you rise above the clutter is through consistency and persistence. 

That has always been our goal, and Symphonic really got that. They understood that there’s a place for that and that was really important. 

We have a bit of a calling card with the first artist that we signed seven years ago, Tash. She just sold out a series of tours in Australia and her biggest market is now the US and she’s going to be touring there next year. That’s why they reached out. Everyone has seen what we’ve done with Tash. I think the Symphonic team in the US really had a connection to that vision and a passion for the same goals. 

Do you plan to set up an office in Asia? Perhaps in Manila?

Sure, eventually. Right now, it’s very early days. I think we can safely say that the Symphonic team is representing us well. But yes, we’re definitely looking to have a presence here. 

Are you focusing on a particular genre like R&B and Pop, or can we expect a broader range?

I think those two genres that you mentioned are the main goals. That’s definitely our areas of expertise. I think Pop and R&B are the way to go. 

Awesome! Could you share a teaser on some projects you’re currently working on in those genres?

Jay R’s the first thing, and then we Shanice, who we signed about a year ago and she’s just a powerhouse! She’s like, if Ariana Grande, Mariah Carey, and Kelly Clarkson had a baby, vocally. She’s incredible! She has a record collab with Jay R called “Never Ever” which comes out on Aug. 22, and it’s really spectacular! 

Other than that, we’re going to have to find something that we’re passionate about artist-wise; that fits the bill, that has the work ethic, and that we feel like has a special talent that we can globalize. We’re not interested in anything that cannot compete at a global level. It’s got to be special like that. 

How exciting! Having worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, what does it mean to you to return to the Philippines at this point in your career?

It’s always a familiar, warm feeling. There are beautiful memories here. I started my career here, and my family still lives here. I think it’s just exciting to be here at this point in the journey where I hopefully can help and discover other worthy talents that need to be heard.

What would you say is the Philippine music scene’s biggest potential?

It’s basically a Latin country. That’s what separates us. Yes, we are Asia, but we have so much of the Latin influence here. You look at Indonesia, Malaysia, and South Korea, and it’s still very oriental leaning, which is great! But I think on the western side of things, that’s a little harder for our western audience to connect with. Not that it can’t, but you look at K-pop and musically, it’s completely American. It’s westernized. 

English is also a very spoken and understood language here. That gives an edge. The Philippines always had an affinity for Western American culture, so there’s an ability to connect and assimilate to it, especially in music. Given all of that, we just have a head start over most of the Asian countries. 

What excites you the most about the local music scene?

Filipinos' love for music is what excites me the most. Locally, there’s so much talent. Live music is such a big thing here, which I think is something lacking in other parts of the world. Being good on the live scene is very different to being good in the studio but I think when you’re good as a live musician, it’s going to help you when you make the jump over. 

Having done this for many years, what continues to drive your passion?

Music. I just love the music. 

There’s something about putting on a great record and the way it makes you feel. It makes you smile, it makes you move, it just does something to you. I’m still as obsessed with it more than ever! I’m obsessed with the process, and compete with myself so hard that every time I produce something new, there’s a newer, better version of my process, which I think is really key.

I love the greats. Michael Jackson is one of my many influences and if you look at his work, “Thriller” and “Off the Wall,” it’s still very relevant today. I want that kind of legacy with the artists we work with. 

Has your creative process changed through the years?

A little bit. I think like with anything, as you go on doing it more and more, certain things become easier or become like bodily functions almost. Producing vocals, for example, which is one of the most intricate parts of the process, has gotten a lot easier in terms of being able to pull the best out of an artist. We live in a world where it’s a lot easier to record now. I have the programs and Pro Tools that help me work faster. I think that part of the process has changed and evolved. 

Seven years into HITMAKERS, we are a little bit better at figuring out or identifying “X” factors in artists. They’re superheroes in one way, but then in other ways they have their quirks. So we’ve been able to flesh that out and understand how to connect and motivate artists and speak their language faster.

How do you manage to balance staying true to your musical roots while continuously innovating and evolving with the times?

Look, you got to find a balance, right? You can’t let the artist get lost in my process, otherwise every artist I work with is just going to be another clone of the last thing I did. So understanding who they are, what separates them, what makes them special, why people like them is key. 

But you also have to help them be the best version of themselves and be open to evolution. That has to happen a little bit organically. Sometimes changing or making these adjustments to a record ends up just being personal preference, and that’s okay. I’m fine with that. I’ll put my foot down when I feel like it’s technically incorrect or it affects the final outcome in terms of it being the best version of itself. 

Do you have any advice for producers and musicians who dream of making it on the world stage?

Number one, you only get what you put in. Be obsessed with the journey and be obsessed with your craft. Be aware of what’s around you in terms of product. As a producer, you’re competing with the greats, and it’s a science. Nowadays you're fighting for a spot on a playlist on Spotify or on Apple, and if you can’t create a final product that keeps people on your song, then you’ve failed. 

Second, never be afraid of what’s new. I stay relevant a lot of the times because my wife and I are listening to the newest and the latest. Whether you get it at the first listen or not, you have to stay in touch with what’s out there. That’s key. 

You also have to understand social media—what’s working? What are people buying into? What are the trends? How are kids discovering music? Why is Taylor Swift generating a billion dollars in touring revenue? And why are 13-year-olds and their 30 or 40-year-old mothers going to her concerts together while still being able to relate to her? You got to understand it. 

If you could sum up this new chapter—new music and return to the Philippines—in one word, what would it be?

Trendsetters, because we live in a world of norms now. Everyone wants to conform to the norms but we want to be ninjas and rebels who think outside the box and set the trends. 

You can learn more about HITMAKERS ENTERTAINMENT and its artists by visiting their website or following them on Instagram and TikTok. You can also stay updated on Mark Feist’s latest collaborations on his Instagram and X (Formerly Twitter) pages. 

Korean popular music, or K-Pop, has long been a cornerstone of South Korea’s cultural and musical identity. From its early beginnings with first-generation idols to the dynamic groups of today, K-Pop has seen its influence expand beyond Korea, with an increasing number of acts garnering recognition on the international stage. 

There really is no denying the impact and indelible mark K-Pop has had on pop culture. With such vast popularity, it’s only fair to produce a K-Pop-inspired film that caters to a wide audience. And that popularity ultimately led to the release of K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix. 

What Is K-Pop Demon Hunters About?

Hailing from Sony Pictures Animation, K-Pop Demon Hunters — directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans — is an animated fantasy feature centered on the K-Pop industry, albeit with a supernatural twist. Based on a story by Kang, the film follows the chart-topping girl group Huntr/x as they lead a double life: idols by day and demon hunters by night.

Together, the members — Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zoey (Ji-young Yoo) — use their magical singing abilities to protect humans from the demon’s looming threat. However, trouble begins when a group of demons, disguised as a rival boy band called the Saja Boys, arrives to steal the souls of their fans.

The movie joins Netflix’s extensive library of Korean shows — and a notable one at that. Apart from dominating the streaming charts since its release, the fictional K-Pop groups have also outperformed some of the biggest real ones on the music charts, proving that the “Soda Pop” craze isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Oh, my little soda pop.

K-Culture Easter Eggs in K-Pop Demon Hunters You May Have Missed

For non-K-Pop fans, the movie may come across as a colorful spectacle (perhaps a bit cheesy), portraying the world of the Korean pop industry. But for avid fans, K-Pop Demon Hunters is packed with a plethora of references that are deeply rooted in Korean pop culture. Check out the K-Culture Easter eggs below: 

Tiger and Magpie

Bringing a centuries-old painting to life, the movie features Saja Boys’ Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop) alongside a blue-colored tiger and a six-eyed magpie as his pet. But it wasn’t just a cute and subsequently odd addition to the story, as the reference dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. Originating from a type of Korean folk painting known as Minhwa, the magpie and tiger painting — also called Kkachi Horangi — is a type of Minhwa that intentionally depicts tigers with an absurd and playful appearance, while magpies are always portrayed as regal. 

While tigers are fierce predators in reality, the painting took a comedic spin by giving them a comical look, portraying the ruling class. On the other hand, magpies — portrayed as the bringers of good news — represent the common people. Historically, the painting served as a humorous and satirical commentary on the aristocratic society of the Joseon period. It stands as a testament to the creative imagination of the ordinary people of that era.

Grim Reapers

Jeoseung Saja, the Korean equivalent of the Western Grim Reaper, is a figure from Korean folklore. They are often depicted as pale creatures clad in an all-black hanbok — Western grim reaper, but make it fashion. In Korean mythology, Jeoseung Sajas are underworld messengers tasked with guiding the souls of the deceased to the afterlife.

The name Saja Boys is inspired by Korean folklore, though — instead of guiding souls, they steal them. In a performance for their new song “Your Idol,” the fictional boy band dons the traditional Jeoseung Saja attire. It is also a recurring theme in Korean dramas, featured in series like Goblin, Tomorrow, Black, 49 Days, Hotel Del Luna, and more.

Fans’ Dedication Through Lightsticks

Okay, fans of other musical acts may have established a loyal fanbase over the years, but there’s nothing quite like K-Pop fans — and we stand by that claim. K-Pop fans are arguably the most loyal and dedicated fandom in the world today. Beyond showing up for their idols, they take pride in their identity as devoted supporters of their favorite acts. And at concerts and live shows, it’s an unspoken rule to never forget your lightstick. Each group or solo artist has a uniquely designed lightstick made specifically for them and their fans. 

Some popular examples include BTS’ ARMY bomb, EXO’s hexagon-shaped lightstick, BLACKPINK’s BI-ping-bong, and TWICE’s Candy bong. In K-Pop Demon Hunters, the lightstick for Saja Boys is a handheld lion head with the group’s name etched on the handle. Huntr/x, on the other hand, opted for a more traditional design. It is inspired by norigae, a traditional Korean accessory symbolizing wealth, femininity, and good fortune. It is a pendant typically worn with a hanbok.

Outdoor Performances

Much like in real life, K-Pop Demon Hunters also features one of every K-Pop fan’s favorite types of live shows: an outdoor performance. In the movie, the demons-in-disguise boy band performs their debut single, “Soda Pop,” on a bustling city street. This kind of live show is appreciated by fans because it breaks away from the usual four-walled stage. It creates a unique atmosphere, allows for closer fan interaction, and is celebrated for its rarity.

Oftentimes, idols do outdoor performances during the early years of their careers. In other scenarios, idols get creative too. For example, Girls’ Generation once performed “Tell Me Your Wish (Genie)” on a rooftop helipad to coincide with their military-inspired concept for their second extended play. The legendary girl group also performed “Gee” on a football field, “Oh” in an ice rink, and “Etude” in a waterpark. What a time. 

Sadly, that type of performance rarely happens anymore (if at all) in today’s K-pop scene. But K-Pop Demon Hunters brought fans back to such a beautiful era. 

Variety Shows

Idols channel their personality beyond their music through a string of variety shows. In K-Pop Demon Hunters, the Saja Boys showcased their competitiveness by taking on the spicy challenge. In the same fictional show, rival groups Saja Boys and Huntr/x interact with each other, much to the amusement of fans.

Most of the time, variety shows highlight our favorite K-Pop idols’ funny side. Some of the fan-favorite shows include Weekly Idol, Busted, Home Alone, Idol House, Men on a Mission, and Hello Baby, among others. 

Watch K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix. For more updates and information, follow Netflix on Instagram.

Cue orchestral music, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) long-awaited Fantastic Four reboot has finally arrived. Directed by Matt Shakman, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” signals a clear pivot from the superhero formulaic structure and opts for a more mature, lore-rich, and character-intensive direction. 

For long-time comic book readers, especially those who are fans of John Byrne’s run or Jonathan Hickman’s multiversal sagas, the film offers rewarding depth, if not almost cinematic perfection.

From its refusal to go for the overused origin story template to its strategic placement of comic book lore without messing with the pacing, the film knows its audience — and caters to them without holding back. The characters are introduced as established figures, a welcome change that allows their relationships, histories, and newer developments to drive the story forward rather than typical, tedious exposition. 

It’s a storytelling style that the 2025 adaptation of Superman, starring David Corenswet as the eponymous superhero, used as well — and it was just as much a welcome change. After all, while the comic book universe will always welcome newbies into its ranks, a larger portion of these films’ audience will remain to be their most avid fans and readers. The least filmmakers can do, then, is to cater to them by remaining true to the material and giving them the lore they deserve to see on the big screen.

But the film is not without missteps. While it hits many high notes — especially in its treatment of Sue Storm and Shalla-bal — it occasionally stumbles in balancing its ensemble and escalating Galactus as a true existential threat. But first, let’s talk about the plot.

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

Marvel’s First Family

Set in Earth-828, a close copy of Earth-616 (where most of the MCU is set) but with a 60s aesthetic, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduced us to the Fantastic Four team — composed of Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). 

They’re already entrenched in their roles as this Earth’s protectors, as it’s been years since their space mission that gave them their powers. Practically celebrities, diplomats, and influencers, the Fantastic Four team was in a good place, made even better by news of Sue Storm’s pregnancy.

Apart from the baby-proofing that has overtaken the house, Reed Richards has taken it upon himself to “baby-proof” the Earth as well, revealing how he’s taken down several notorious supervillains – a quick nod to their enemies in the comics.

But then the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), not Norrin Radd but rather Shalla-bal, comes to Earth, announcing the arrival of Galactus (Ralph Ineson), the Devourer of Worlds. Earth-828 is marked for complete annihilation. The Silver Surfer’s eerily calm voice echoes: “I herald his beginning. I herald your end. I herald…Galactus.”

As expected, the world looks to the Fantastic Four to save them from their doom. They track down Galactus and end up meeting him, but the fruitless meeting leaves them rushing away as the planet-eating cosmic reveals his only request to spare their Earth: Franklin, Sue and Reed’s unborn child. During their frantic escape, Sue Storm goes into labor and eventually gives birth to Franklin, as they manage to shake off the Silver Surfer who was chasing them.

They return to Earth, a month later in the planet’s timeline, and in a press conference, they confess Galactus’ request to save the planet is their baby, which they refused. In an emotional sequence, the Fantastic Four team does their best to devise a plan to stop Galactus, while public outcry demands they sacrifice Franklin. As tension threatens to boil over, not just outside but also within the family, Sue brings Franklin to the crowd of protesters, assuring them that while she will not be sacrificing Franklin to save the Earth, she is also adamant that she won’t give up the world to save her child.

Reed then devises a plan: a teleportation system that would quite literally teleport the entire planet to another galaxy where Galactus cannot find them. With full faith in the Fantastic Four, the world comes together to build the bridges — which the Silver Surfer then destroys before they could be launched. One last bridge remains in Times Square, but before Shalla-Bal could destroy it, Johnny, who managed to learn her native language, attempts to get her to join their side in destroying Galactus. 

Despite her immense guilt in her role in the end of worlds, the Silver Surfer flees instead, lamenting that there’s no defeating Galactus, only acceptance. 

As a last-ditch effort, with Galactus’ imminent arrival, they use Franklin as bait to lure the cosmic being into their bridge. The city evacuates underground, and despite their trap, Galactus captures Franklin from their home. Refusing to give up in the face of defeat, Sue summons all of her strength in pushing Galactus towards the final bridge as Reed rescues their child, Johnny opens the portal, and The Thing assists Sue. Galactus is then pushed into the portal, but with a few seconds still left, he manages to crawl out, prompting Johnny to sacrifice himself. Before he does, however, Shalla-Ball stops him and pushes Galactus into the portal with her just as it closes. Having used all her power, Sue dies, but is revived by Franklin, a small glimpse into the child’s powers. 

A year later, we see them as a complete family, celebrating another anniversary before being pulled away into another emergency. But not without three men struggling for literally forever to affix the baby seat in the Fantasticar first. 

First Steps, Not Baby Steps

The film succeeds not because it reinvents the wheel, but because it aligns closely with comic book lore while refining it to match today’s cinematic standards. Director Matt Shakman pays close attention to character arcs and lore details that are pulled straight from the comics, earning huge praise from comic book fans and newbies-curious-to-learn-more alike. 

First, we must praise Garner’s hauntingly icy voice and portrayal, bringing a certain gravitas and elegance to a role that could’ve easily been overshadowed by CGI.

Her subtly layered take on the Silver Surfer delivers a complex villain that deepens not just her own character’s emotional stakes but also others. Her transformation into Galactus’ herald is not just survivalist, but symbolic: an unwilling martyr whose allegiance is conflicted by the time we reach the final act. Fans of the Silver Surfer comics, especially Dan Slott’s philosophical runs, will recognize themes of duty versus identity. Her internal struggle: loyalty and love for her family and the people of Zenn-la versus complicity in mass destruction was well explored. And with her final choice mirroring the storyline in Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #50, where the Surfer betrays Galactus in favor of humanity, comic book fans couldn’t help but pump their fists in the air and cheer out loud.

Then there’s Galactus, the Devourer — modeled closely after the comic book’s original design, not the 2007 gas cloud debacle — adds real weight and another win for fans. His mission is specific: to consume worlds, not out of spite or any real vengeance, but out of survival. In “First Steps,” however, he is intent on consuming Franklin Richards, a clear nod to the child’s canon status as an Omega-level mutant capable of creating multiverses and one of the most powerful beings in the world. Franklin is central to Galactus’ plans for continued — and possibly permanent — survival, given the child’s immense power, but of course, his power is yet to be revealed, and as far as the Fantastic Four is concerned, they will not let any harm befall their child. Valid, honestly. I mean, how were they supposed to know that Franklin is actually destined to survive beyond the end of time?

Although, despite his gargantuan scale and menace, which they deliberately kept hidden in marketing promos for maximum drama (which we can all safely say was a good call), Galactus could’ve been given a bit more time or place in the story to showcase how big of a threat he is, as opposed to just a really massive monster. Despite the team’s collective effort, mostly by Sue, to neutralize him, it still felt like there should have been a bigger struggle, considering he eats planets for a living and predates this universe. Still, the climax kept everyone on the edge of their seats, waiting on bated breath, even though we know MCU’s First Family will pull through. And needless to say, we haven’t seen the last of Galactus yet — so we’re very hopeful in seeing more of his powers in the upcoming installments.

But before we get to that, let’s talk about the middle act, which spent ample time dissecting the family dynamic. With Franklin’s life hanging in the balance as the world eagerly shouts for his head and the family struggling to find a solution, the tense family scenes brought forth the biggest contrast between our favorite “mom and dad” duo. “First Steps” pulled focus on the often-overlooked importance of Emotional Quotient (EQ) in contrast to the heavy display of Intellectual Quotient (IQ) thrown around, courtesy of the “smartest person alive,” Reed Richards. Sue Storm, who the director notes is the most emotionally intelligent person in the world, has managed to negotiate global peace — a near-impossible task.

And in one particularly conflicting scene, when Reed, for a painful moment, was finding logic in them sacrificing Franklin for the survival of their world — Sue managed to ground everyone’s emotions, turning their fear and anger into a unifying moment that turned public opinion around. Reed’s emotionally stunted, borderline utilitarian logic and Sue’s emotional core balance each other out, while also creating tension-filled moments that is not just drama for drama’s sake, but genuine philosophical arguments worth mulling over: Would you sacrifice your baby for the sake of the world?

In line with this, we must bow down to Sue Storm, whose strength was in full display. The birth sequence in space had us rooting for her, especially when she simultaneously cloaked their ship — talk about multitasking and sheer willpower. But even with her “full power” on display in the final fight scene as she goes toe-to-toe with Galactus to protect her child, we know Sue is capable of much more. The film was supposed to tease this tidbit: how Sue can weaponize her force fields internally, creating microscopic air bubbles inside vital organs, killing a person with “a snap of her finger.” Narratively, we agree that revealing this extent of her power would’ve diminished her emotional sacrifice in the end. It’s a calculated omission, likely saved for future escalation, one we’re so ready to witness. Hello, "Avengers: Doomsday" (which was also hinted at in one of the film’s post-credit scenes). 

We also took note of the film’s visual effects, a far cry from the early 2000s iterations. Reed’s stretching mirrors realistic stretching as opposed to his limbs seemingly growing endlessly, while Sue’s force fields adopt a spectral interference style rather than a cartoonish bubble aesthetic. The film’s takes on space were also pleasantly surprising. Shakman revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that he took inspiration from “Interstellar” and “2001: A Space Odyssey,” and these paid off, especially when you watch the film on IMAX.

But it’s not all perfect. Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm have their moments: Johnny devoting his time to figuring out Shalla-Bal’s origins and her native language to connect with her (and potentially earning an ally), and Ben accepting his form and finding life outside of the group. But they still feel a bit sidelined in comparison with Sue and Reed's character arcs. Hopefully, with a potential love interest for Ben and a more serious side to Johnny both being hinted at in “First Steps,” we’ll see more from them in the future.

Is ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ a Feminist Film?

To answer this, we must answer one question first: “Does it pass the Bechdel Test?”

Barely. While the film features multiple female characters: Sue Storm, Shalla-Bal, Lynne Nichols, and Rachel Rozman, meaningful conversations between women remain brief and largely mission-focused.

Sue Storm and Lynne Nichols, the latter being the Chief of Staff of the Future Foundation, share several scenes together, but they’re all too short. You could even say they were simply thrown in there to meet the bare minimum of passing the Bechdel Test.

That said, the film’s thematic emphasis on maternal power (Sue’s maternal power and birth scene as well as Shalla-Bal’s self-sacrifice for her family and planet) and emotional intelligence over cold logic and brute force suggests a feminist undertone. The contrast between Reed’s detached logic and Sue’s empathic leadership is one of the film’s compelling throughlines.

However, despite all this, the film doesn’t fully commit to giving its women characters room to breathe outside of their relational roles that are still rooted in society’s matriarchal expectations of women. There’s only so much you can do with canon material, but we hope future installments could further explore these characters.

Should You Watch It?

For die-hard fans who have read Lee, Byrne, Simonson, Waid, or Hickman, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is a gratifying return to form. It’s a carefully crafted homage to Marvel’s oldest superhero team, with modern sensibilities and multiversal ambition. Shakman has delivered a version worthy of their comic legacy, while strong performances from Kirby and Garner elevate it beyond standard superhero fare. 

It isn’t flawless, though. Johnny and Ben deserve more screentime, to be more than glorified backup roles. Although we understand that the film’s central focus is on the core family trio of Reed, Sue, and Franklin, given Galactus’ objective. But in terms of deep lore integration, character authenticity, and cinematic vision, it’s a massive leap forward. Again, we can’t quite forgive 2007 Galactus-gate. 

With “First Steps,” Marvel has laid strong groundwork for both Secret Wars and the Doomsday arc. For that alone, it’s worth the price of admission.

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is now showing in a cinema near you. Follow Fantastic Four on Facebook and Instagram. For more updates and information on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, follow Marvel Entertainment on Facebook and Instagram. 

Monsoon season has officially rolled in and with it comes the perfect excuse to stay indoors, brew your favorite cup of tea, and cozy up with a good book. 

Rainy days offer the perfect vibe for reads that are light and cozy but still manage to be engaging and immersive. Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and uplifting or looking to laugh, cry, or escape the gloomy weather into some whimsical wonderland, we’ve rounded up some of the latest books written by Asian authors that promise a kind of quiet comfort that feels right at home with the rain. 

The Mystical Mister Kay by Meihan Boey

Published by Epigram Books, 2025

In the third and final book in the “Miss Cassidy” series by Singaporean author Meihan Boey, Victorian tropes blend with Asian monsters as a ghost-seer’s investigation in search of a friend takes a darker turn when he discovers a dead princess, a cult-like fashion house that holds the city in its grip, and a seminary for Asian royals with a secret. 

This story follows Mr. Kay, who gets entangled with the gods of Ancient Greece and Asia, who are breaking into the mortal world, and is pulled into a mystery spanning continents and mythology. Will he find Miss Cassidy? Or will he die trying?

The 2025 Epigram Books Fiction Prize winner is a fascinating mystery sprinkled with a little bit of fantasy and folklore, creating the perfect escape this monsoon season. 

Immortal by Sue Lynn Tan

Published by Harper Voyager, 2025

Romantasy is without a doubt the hottest mashup genre trend in fiction right now and Sue Lynn Tan’s latest folklore reimagining set in the same world as her “Celestial Kingdom” books (“Daughter of the Moon Goddess” and “The Heart of the Sun Warrior”) is one you shouldn’t miss picking up if you’re a fan of the genre or of Chinese mythology. 

In this sweeping romantic fantasy between an ambitious ruler and a ruthless God of War, we follow human Liyen, who’s destined to ascend the throne and renew her kingdom’s pledge to serve the immortals who once protected them from a vicious enemy. But when she is poisoned, Liyen’s grandfather steals an enchanted lotus to save her life—a betrayal of the immortal queen, who then commands the God of War to attack Liyen’s kingdom.

The heiress intends to break their bond with the Immortals, and when she ascends to their realm, she tries to uncover secrets she could use to form a dangerous alliance with the God of War himself—all the while trying to ignore this burning attraction between them. 

Sue Lynn Tan weaves an immersive world of gods and mortals brimming with romance and yearning, coupled with heroic stunts and action sequences that leap off the page and keep you on the edge of your seat. 10/10, we love a read with sword-fighting lovers!

Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao

Published by Del Rey Books, 2025

Filipino author Samantha Sotto Yambao returns with a captivating tale set in Tokyo, Japan where a young woman inherits a pawnshop that trades in memories and regrets. 

Fans of whimsical fantasy stories and Studio Ghibli movies will enjoy her visual storytelling of an epic adventure where the protagonist embarks on a dream-like quest to find a missing artefact with a charming stranger who stumbled upon the pawnshop and is unlike any customer she has ever met before.  

Cozy, magical, and romantic, this read lets you hitchhike on paper cranes through night markets in the clouds, taking you to otherworldly places beyond your wildest imagination. The ideal book if you’re trying to tune out the thunder outside your window. 

The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang

Translated by Slin Jung | Published by Ace Books, 2023/2025

What if you were given the chance to change your life? 

In this magical realism story, there is an abandoned house on the outskirts of Rainbow Town that is rumored to grant tickets to those who write and address a letter to it detailing their misfortunes. If you bring this ticket to the house on the first day of the rainy season, you'll be granted entrance into the mysterious Rainfall Market run by dokkaebi vendors (mythical Korean goblins), who sell orbs that offer glimpses of alternative lives you can choose.  

This cozy fantasy by a South Korean author is a soothing and hopeful narrative about self-discovery, family, and appreciating the things you have. For those looking for an uplifting and atmospheric read during the rainy days, this book will surely cheer you up. 

A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2025

We’re adding another Chinese mythology-inspired book to this list because why not? This Young Adult masterpiece by the bestselling author of “Six Crimson Cranes” and “Spin the Dawn” is a romantic fantasy that takes you down to the mystical depths of the Dragon realm. 

Pitched as “Beauty and the Beast” meets Asian mythology, the story follows Truyan Saigas, a gifted art forger who can paint the future. She crosses paths with the elusive half-dragon lord whom she signs a marriage contract with in exchange for the safety of her family. Little did she know that her mission would involve assisting him in overthrowing the tyrannical Dragon King. 

A book with dragons and a Marriage of Convenience trope? Sounds like a dream! Although it is a romance, this standalone fantasy wonderfully weaves a unique story packed with centuries-old dragons, fascinating sea creatures, and enchanting magic. The author’s prose truly made us feel like we were floating in that watery kingdom. 

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

Translated by Eric Ozawa | Published by Harper Perennial, 2010/2023

A book about the healing power of literature, this moving international bestseller comes highly recommended this season, and if you’re stuck in a reading slump. The novel follows a young woman named Takako, who’s looking for a fresh start after she was blindsided by her boyfriend, when he confessed that he’s marrying someone else. She reluctantly accepts her uncle Satoru’s generous offer to live in the small apartment above his secondhand bookshop, located in Tokyo’s used bookstore district, Jimbocho, where Takako spends her days helping out surrounded by stacks of dusty old books. Little did she know that these books would completely change her life. 

Heartfelt, touching, and gentle, “Days at the Morisaki Bookshop” is for the weary souls and for people hoping to rediscover the joys of reading. If you’ve been down in the dumps due to the nonstop rains or simply looking to get back into reading, this novel feels like a pair of arms welcoming you back home.