There’s a new iteration of The Fantastic Four out, and it’s sure to set the Marvel Cinematic Universe alight. The question for many is whether The Fantastic Four: First Steps is going to be suitable for all members of the family.
The Fantastic Four is the latest Marvel movie, and it follows the origin story of the unlikely team of superheroes. After suddenly becoming heroes, they need to work together to protect the galaxy from the Silver Surfer and Galactus. Of course, they’re not all exactly friends, and some of them are selfish, which makes for an interesting team-up.
As this is a Marvel movie, you may assume that it’s going to be fine for the whole family. Deadpool viewers were shocked the first time one of those movies came out, though, so you don’t want to be caught off guard again.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps age rating: Explaining the PG-13 rating
In the United States, the movie has been given a PG-13 rating, which matches the majority of the MCU movies. Across the globe, it’s given a 12, 12A, PG, and even a 13A rating. It suggests that this is at least suitable for the teens, so let’s take a look at the breakdown to understand more.
Sex & nudity: Let’s note that The Invisible Woman is invisible except for her clothes. At first, she has to go naked if she wants to remain invisible until her suit is made for her. Nothing is gratuitously on show, though.
There is a moment where a married couple shares some romantic moments between them, but it really does stay PG-13 in the sense that we see them kissing now and again. There is also a moment where one character calls the Silver Surfer “sexy.”
Violence & gore: This is a superhero movie, so you will expect some violence, right? This is mild compared to most other superhero movies, although there is one scene that may stand out for younger children. A baby is put in peril, which can be uncomfortable to watch.
Most of the fight scenes involve blasts of energy and fire, while there are also some punching scenes. It’s nothing more than you would expect from previous Fantastic Four movies.
Language: There is one use of the F-bomb, but it’s not completely clear. Most people will guess what the character is saying. Other than that, the S-word is dropped multiple times, and there is a use of the BS-word. Most of the language is religious blasphemy, such as “Jesus,” “God,” and “hell.”
Alcohol & drugs: There is a scene that involves characters drinking wine. This is in moderation, and there’s no other use of alcohol or drugs.
Overall verdict: Who is The Fantastic Four: First Steps appropriate for?
This is one of those movies that’s great for the kids in the house. I definitely recommend it for teenagers, but it will also work for some slightly younger children. I’d say anything from seven and up should find the scenes okay, but it will depend on the interests of your children.
If they’ve watched other MCU movies, then there shouldn’t be an issue with this release. Of course, as always, use your judgment as a parent.