Fantastic Four (2005 film)

The Fantastic Four is a 2005 American superhero film directed by Tim Story, based on the Marvel Comics team of the same name. The film stars Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Michael Chiklis, and Julian McMahon. The plot revolves around four astronauts who, after being exposed to cosmic radiation during a scientific mission, gain superhuman abilities. These abilities transform them into the superhero team known as the Fantastic Four.

Ioan Gruffudd portrays Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic, a brilliant scientist who can stretch his body into incredible lengths and shapes. Jessica Alba plays Sue Storm / Invisible Woman, Reed's colleague and love interest, who can become invisible and project force fields. Chris Evans plays Johnny Storm / Human Torch, Sue's younger brother, who can generate fire and fly. Michael Chiklis plays Ben Grimm / The Thing, Reed's best friend and a former college football star, who transforms into a rock-like creature with immense strength. Julian McMahon portrays Victor Von Doom / Doctor Doom, a ruthless businessman and the film's antagonist, who gains similar powers and seeks to dominate the world.

The film follows the team as they learn to control their powers and use them to stop Doctor Doom's evil plans. Thematically, the film explores themes of teamwork, family, and responsibility. Fantastic Four was released in the United States on July 8, 2005, by 20th Century Fox. It received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the casting and action sequences but criticized the script and pacing. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a box office success. A sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, was released in 2007.