Now that Fantastic Four: First Steps has been released, the summer of Fantastic Four is definitely waning. There are still remnants of celebrating the First Family, however, and that includes Fantastic Four Fanfare #4. The final issue in the anthology features four stories by some of comics’ greatest creators, but can they take the series home?
Kicking things off is “Ain’t No Grave” by J. Michael Straczynski and Cafu, which is heavily focused on Sue Storm. Told in two parts, the story opens with Reed attempting to figure out Sue’s invisible power limits, and he can’t seem to find the ceiling. This ties into the second portion involving Mole Man’s imminent demise. He has cancer, and it seems nothing can save him.
This story ties nicely into the recent film because it details why Sue is so damn amazing. Similar to the film, Sue has a deep respect for Mole Man, and Straczynski makes a powerful case as to why. Not only does it highlight Sue’s compassion, but it also reveals her open-mindedness towards one of the oldest FF villains. Throw in a clever use of her powers, and it’s a solid entry.
Cafu brings his usual super clean, highly detailed, and dynamic art. A panel of Sue casually walking by Subterranea beasts is rendered in high detail, with each monster looking incredibly formidable. Mole Man’s gaunt figure is also striking, acting as a visual reminder of his poor health.
An excellent final story!
Credit: Marvel
Mark Bagley joins Greg Weisman of Gargoyles fame to tell the next story, “One Night,” which focuses on the Fantastic Four right before Sue gives birth to Franklin. The story has a classic feel, with minimal fighting, but a whole lot of talking. The discussion surrounds how the team might change with a baby on the way. There’s a bit of awkwardness between Reed and Sue at one point as he seems to have annoyed Sue by telling the team and treating the pregnancy like a science experiment. I suppose Weisman is trying to pluck out how Sue puts up with Reed and is a saint for it.
While Bagley brings his highly detailed art style, the story feels too casual and focused on the dynamics of the characters. Instead of tackling a mission or a single problem, it feels more like part of an issue that’s missing pieces.
Last but not least, Daniel Warren Johnson and Tyrell Cannon team up for a battle straight out of pro wrestling titled “Clobberin’ Time.” Headlining the event is Namor, who seeks to show Sue Storm he can beat everyone, and backing him to make it all happen is Galactus. If it sounds far-fetched and wild, that’s because that’s what this story is all about.
The fighting is fun, fast, and filled with speed lines to amp up the reader. There are some wickedly creative visual ideas at work, like a fighter’s bracket that serves as a montage of Thing’s conquests. There are rather striking moments for multiple characters, like Namor glistening after throwing off a robe, Sue looking quite dismissive, and a hilarious final panel that shows who the real loser is all along. It’s as intense as it is expressive and over-the-top fun.
Fantastic Four Fanfare #4 closes out the anthology with a mixed but memorable batch of stories, spotlighting Sue Storm’s heart, Reed and Sue’s family dynamics, and a wildly entertaining slugfest. While not every entry sticks the landing, the issue captures the First Family’s unique blend of heart, humor, and high-stakes adventure.
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