Comic Review: Fantastic Four (2022) #1

Marvel Comics

Writer: Ryan North

Artists: Iban Coello & Jesus Abertov

Letterer: VC’s Joe Caramagna

While it wasn’t entirely consistent, Dan Slott’s on Fantastic Four was more than enough to set the iconic characters back on the right track following their absence. The run got a long of things wrong, but it also had some of the best moments in comics over the last few years. Still, it felt like it was time for a new direction.

For many, the two biggest things on the wishlist for a Fantastic Four series are to make it more fun and give Sue Storm a noteworthy role as a character. Ryan North clearly got the memo, because this issue is about as fun as one can ask for while still feeling like Fantastic Four. Even better, this issue is a fantastic introduction for new readers and feels more like a one-shot than a debut for an ongoing series.

This issue focuses on Ben and Alicia as they try to get away from… Something. They stay in a motel where no one seems to know who they are, then they discover that the town is actually stuck in a time loop. Of course, Ben and Alicia seek to discover what is causing the loop to remedy the problem.

Ryan North’s script is both tight and clever and is an absolute treat from the first three pages. Ryan North and artist Iban Coello utilize some interesting techniques to establish the setting without taking it too far and wearing out the novelty. The pacing is nearly perfect, as North and Coello tell a concise story with a beginning and an end. It isn’t until the final page that the direction of the next few issues is revealed.

It is yet to be seen how North will handle the voices of all of the Fantastic Four members, but he certainly nailed the voices for Ben and Alicia. They aren’t the only noteworthy characters either, as a few of the supporting characters in the town are interesting as well. Readers will be invested in this little strange town, and the closure that it gets is fulfilling.

Coello’s art is lovely colored by Jesus Abertov, who adds a nice amount of depth to the panels. The time loop shenanigans are creatively conveyed with neat panel layouts and cool effects with lots of colors. This isn’t a particularly action-filled issue, but the artists do a great job of keeping it visually appealing. The framing and use of space between the panels keep the dialogue and narrative interesting throughout.

Joe Caragmagna adds to the fun with excellent lettering throughout the issue. There are many sound effects that are visually appealing on the page. They are big, colorful, and most importantly, loud.

While this debut doesn’t feel like the first issue in an ongoing Fantastic Four series, it’s a lovely way to start. Ben and Alicia’s relationship is a special one, and it’s nice to see them get the spotlight before North’s run inevitably gets wild. Anyone who is interested in Fantastic Four should pick this issue up. It’s as accessible as ever and is simply one of the best single-issue stories of the year.