Screen Test: ‘Wednesday S2’ Kicks Off with Deadly Potential

Labubu has taken the designer toy world by storm — and it’s not stopping there. In Labubu x The World, we spotlight the most iconic and unexpected collaborations that have turned this mischievous monster into a global pop culture sensation.

Labubu x The Monsters x One Piece

Labubu x The Monsters x One Piece brings together three iconic worlds in a crossover no one saw coming! Beloved Straw Hat Pirates like Luffy, Chopper, Franky, Jinbe, Brook, and more get a wild reimagining by Kasing Lung, the creator of Labubu. This playful and collectible series fuses One Piece’s legendary characters with the quirky, monster-like charm of Labubu and The Monsters, resulting in a must-have line for anime fans and designer toy collectors alike.

Don’t miss the Pop Mart Labubu The Monsters x One Piece Series, featuring the rare Monkey D. Luffy Gear 5 (Secret Edition) figure.

Labubu Hide and Seek (Singapore Edition)

Labubu Hide and Seek (Singapore Edition) brings a whimsical twist to the Lion City! Designed by Kasing Lung, this collectible features Labubu in a soft, fur-like vinyl plush finish, complete with rosy cheeks, pointy ears, a toothy grin, a fishtail, and a tiny pearl detail — making it one of the most adorable versions yet.

Compact at just 10 × 10 × 17.5 cm, this pendant doubles as a quirky accessory thanks to its handy hook. Whether you’re a Pop Mart fan, a Labubu lover, or just into cute things with character, this exclusive Singapore release is a charming addition to any collection.

Labubu Lemon Tea Figure-Copy-Copy

Labubu Lemon Tea Figure serves up the perfect blend of cute and refreshing! This collectible features Labubu chilling with a zesty glass of lemon tea, capturing a lighthearted moment in a compact and display-worthy design.

Measuring 9.8 cm in height and made from sturdy PVC/ABS materials, this figure highlights Pop Mart’s trademark craftsmanship, capturing everything from Labubu’s playful grin to the bright, detailed lemon tea cup. It’s a fun addition to any toy shelf, desk, or collector’s lineup, and makes a playful gift for fans of designer toys and all things quirky.

Labubu The Monsters COCA-COLA Series

Labubu The Monsters COCA-COLA Series is a fizzy fusion of pop culture and collectible art! This limited-edition collab between Pop Mart and Coca-Cola reimagines the mischievous Labubu with bold, soda-inspired designs that bring a refreshing twist to your display shelf.

Each Vinyl Face Single Blind Box holds a surprise figure, adding a spark of mystery to every unboxing. From vintage Coke aesthetics to playful reinterpretations of Labubu’s iconic face, this series is perfect for both Pop Mart veterans and Coca-Cola fans looking for something unique and artistic.

The Monsters How to Train Your Dragon

Labubu x How to Train Your Dragon is here — and it’s pure mischief in dragon form! In this whimsical crossover, Labubu transforms into Light Fury, Toothless, and more, bringing a playful twist to the world of Hiccup and Berk.

The POP MART The Monsters How to Train Your Dragon Figurine Series blends fantasy with cuteness, capturing the charm of DreamWorks’ beloved dragons through Kasing Lung’s signature Labubu lens. Each sealed blind box holds a surprise figure, making every unboxing an adventure in itself.

Labubu Wacky Mart Series

The Labubu Wacky Mart Series transforms everyday convenience store snacks into fun, collectible figures with a playful twist! In this deliciously fun drop, Labubu gets a foodie makeover — dressed up as onigiri, yakitori, milk, chips, chow mein, fried shrimp, and more. Each figure playfully captures the charm of Japanese grocery packaging with monster-style flair.

The highlight? A secret "Microwave Oven" edition, with only a 1/144 chance of being drawn — making it a must-hunt for serious collectors. Blending humor, nostalgia, and everyday cravings, The Monsters Wacky Mart is perfect for fans of offbeat vinyl art and cozy konbini vibes.

Labubu Let's Checkmate Series

Labubu Let's Checkmate Series crowns the king of mischief in plush perfection! This 14.57-inch vinyl plush features Labubu decked out in a regal red cape, white frills, and a tilted red-and-gold crown, holding a matching red box with his name in gold script — because every monster needs a royal flair.

With soft brown fur, piercing blue eyes, and that signature toothy grin, this Let's Checkmate edition blends cuddly charm with Labubu’s iconic chaos. Released on Feb. 6, 2025, it’s a must-have for collectors who love their vinyl art with a little rule-breaking royalty.

Labubu Art Basel Edition

Labubu Art Basel Edition takes center stage as the ultimate art-meets-toy collectible of 2025. Designed by Kasing Lung and released exclusively at the Art Basel Shop, this limited-edition porcelain Labubu — dressed in the fair’s signature blue and clutching a tiny spirit level — pays cheeky tribute to the precision of the art world.

With only 100 pieces produced, this mischievous monster quickly became the most sought-after item at the fair, selling out within hours and sparking a frenzy among collectors and resellers. Elegant, witty, and wildly exclusive, it’s a true statement piece for art lovers and designer toy fans alike.

In the age of POP MART and designer toy collectibles, Jellycat is carving its own path — winning over adults with quirky plushies that feel like a warm hug from your childhood.

Founded in London in 1999 by Thomas Gatacre, the luxury soft toy brand initially made high-end stuffed toys for babies. But that changed over time, as more and more adults began to collect these plushies, quickly becoming a cult favorite for its unique designs and luxurious quality. These days, they stand out from the countless blind box unboxing videos and massive Labubus simply by being fun, soft, and nostalgic. The British brand was reported to have made US$252 million in revenue between 2022 and 2023, its popularity propelled by Gen Z consumers, as reported by Yahoo Finance. 

Although initially made for infants and children, Jellycat’s whimsical collection is for all ages and goes beyond their signature plush bunnies and fluffy teddy bears. There’s a whole other side of the brand that’s just as lovable (if not more), and yes, we’re talking about its Amuseables line, a delightful, quirky collection of toys inspired by everyday objects and food items. 

Whether you’re an avid collector or looking for something to cheer up your space, here are some of the cutest and most unique Jellycat toys you’ll want to snuggle — or snack on — stat!

Timmy Turtle

Deemed as the "grumpiest" Jellycat of the group, Timmy Turtle is more than just a frowning reptile, but is the very definition of slow and snugly. With its textured beige tummy and embroidered green shell, Timmy Turtle brings a sense of calm energy and endless cuddles! It’s definitely the type of plushie who doesn’t say much, but will always make you feel better just by existing.

Oh, and that’s not even the best part about him. He also comes in a bag version and a mini charm, so you can bring him anywhere! This bag “holds anything but grudges” and will surely be your next favorite travel pal. 

Amuseables Coffee-To-Go-Bag

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, one plush hopes to do more than just provide comfort and cuddles, but make sure you’re energized and hydrated throughout the day.

Perfect for those on the go, this cross-body brew brings the right dose of charm to any commute or coffee run. We love a plush that can multitask! For the ladies who like to hold several things in the palm of their hand at once, this bag says, “Queen, let me hold your cup while you slay!”

Amuseables Ramen

If you were to ask us, nani ga suki (what do you like)? We’d say ramen off the top of our heads, because who doesn’t?

This delightful Jellycat is full of kawaii charm, and features a plush cream-and-red bowl, topped with noodles, spring onions, fluffy boiled eggs, and a pink embroidered fish cake! A set of chopsticks sits on top, and dare we say it looks good enough to slurp!

Amuseables Teapot and Teacups

One of the major things that has contributed to Jellycat’s popularity is their creative pop-ups, which they call cafés. You don’t just buy a plushie in these stores, you experience them. Jellycat makes sure to include their iconic gift wrapping element, which involves fun interactions with their staff and witnessing your toys being prepped and packed like actual food. 

The brand has established these adorable pop-up experiences across multiple cities, including New York, Paris, and London. Last September, they launched the first Jellycat experience in Asia with Jellycat CAFÉ Shanghai, featuring a set of new characters inspired by Shanghai’s distinct city culture. 

Among the plushies are Bartholomew Bear, Magnolia Cupcake, Amuseables Yulania Latte, Yulan Taro Cake, as well as the adorable Titia Teapot and Sip and Slurp Teacups. Definitely too cute to handle!

Amuseables Parisian Delights

During the Paris 2024 Olympics, Jellycat dropped a new set of exclusive Amuseables for their Jellycat Pâtisserie Experience pop-up store located at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. The collection was composed of charming new characters inspired by iconic French pastries, from macarons, tarts, and brioche. 

In addition to this, they also released boulangerie-inspired soft toys such as the Canelé, Eclairs, Croissant, and the baguette! It’s très bien, and we definitely wouldn’t mind walking around Champs-Élysées with a croissant cross-body bag like a true French local. 

Amuseables Popcorn Bag

Whether you’re heading out to the cinemas or staying in to binge your favorite series, this Jellycat plushie is the perfect companion. Designed in that signature red-and-white carnival stripes and a fluffy popcorn top, the bag is surprisingly spacious and can fit snacks, your phone, and other essentials.

For those looking to give their OOTD a touch of theatre, why not consider getting this red-carpet-ready cutie? 

Amuseables Sports Ball Charms

Sports fans will be glad to know that Jellycat has a ton of sport-inspired items to help you show off your team pride. And don’t get us wrong, they are all adorable in their own way, but their sports balls just hit different!

From tennis balls, baseballs, footballs, and golf balls, these mini charms make the perfect companions for your gym bags or purses. Each ball is stitched and dyed with their signature designs and colors, with the added accessories like how the baseball and golf ones have tiny hats on. It’s the perfect gift for any sports fan. 

Additionally, these charms are also available in mini plushie forms. 

Amuseables Succulents

Not a green thumb? No problem. Jellycat’s potted succulents don’t need sunlight or water, just plenty of cuddles — and maybe a nice shelf to sit on.

Some of our favorites include the Silly Succulent Jade with its pebbly felt pot and squashy velvety leaves that have a nice shimmery green shade, the Silly Succulent Aloe, which makes the perfect housewarming gift, and the adorable Silly Succulent Barrel Cactus for very obvious reasons — it makes the cutest desk companion!

Can’t get enough of their cuteness? Browse through their website to discover more Amuseables, or follow Jellycat on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram. 

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.