Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 Review: Why Ben Grimm Steals the Show

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Updated: 27 Jul, 2025 • • min read

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The Fantastic Four have always been Marvel’s First Family, but at their core, they’re a group of flawed, deeply human heroes. Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 (2025) takes us back to where it all began, not just their cosmic accident, but the struggles that shaped them long before they became superheroes. Today, we’re diving into Part 1 (Pages 1-5), which focuses on Ben Grimm’s early life and the grit that made him the heart of the team.

The Fantastic Four’s Origin: A Quick Recap

The issue opens with a classic retelling of the FF’s fateful space mission, where cosmic rays transformed Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm into the superhero team we know today. But while their powers are extraordinary, it’s their humanity that makes them compelling, especially Ben, whose journey from hotheaded pilot to the rock-skinned Thing is one of Marvel’s most emotional arcs.

Ben Grimm’s Backstory: A Fighter From the Start

Ben Grimm was a rough youngster from Yancy Street with huge goals before he became the Thing. The comic flashes back to his youth in Arizona, where we see:

His struggles in school: Ben wasn’t a natural student, but he refused to let failure define him.
His determination to fly: Despite being told he wasn’t "cut out for academia," he fought tooth and nail to earn his place in the cockpit.
Uncle Jake’s tough love: A mentor who pushed Ben to see his own potential, telling him: "If you wanna reach the stars, fight your way there!"

This backstory isn’t just filler, it sets up Ben’s entire character. His stubbornness, loyalty, and insecurity about his appearance all stem from this period of his life.

The Birth of a Hero

One of the most powerful scenes in this section is when Ben, frustrated by his grades, explodes at a teacher who suggests he’s only there to play football. Instead of accepting the easy path, Ben demands to be challenged, showing the same fiery spirit that later makes him such a formidable hero.

This moment is crucial because it foreshadows his transformation into the Thing. Ben was struggling to live up to the expectations of the world even before the cosmic rays.xf When he later becomes a "monster," that same resilience keeps him going.

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First Mission, First Villain, First Fractures

Every superhero team has a defining first mission, the moment they truly become who they’re meant to be. In Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 (2025), Pages 6-10 deliver exactly that: the FF’s disastrous spaceflight, their explosive transformation, and their first battle as a team. But beneath the action lies something deeper, the cracks in their foundation that will shape their future. Let’s break it down.

Team Dynamics: A Clash of Egos Under Cosmic Fire

Before they were a family, the Fantastic Four were four very different people forced together by circumstance. This section highlights their early tensions:
Reed’s Overconfidence – He pushes for the launch despite warnings about cosmic rays, ignoring Ben’s concerns.
Ben’s Defiance – When called a "coward," he takes the controls in a rage, sealing their fate.
Sue’s Fear & Johnny’s Recklessness – Sue’s hesitation contrasts with Johnny’s thrill-seeking, setting up their dynamic.
The cosmic ray accident isn’t just a power origin, it’s a consequence of their flaws. Reed’s arrogance, Ben’s temper, and Johnny’s impulsiveness all play a role, making their transformation feel earned.

The Mole Man and Monster Isle: The First Villain Encounter

Fresh from their transformation, the team faces their inaugural threat: the Mole Man, a bitter outcast commanding an army of subterranean monsters. The battle is a showcase for their new abilities:
Reed can outthink their opponent and maneuver through tunnels because to his flexibility.
Sue’s invisibility protects the team from ambushes.
Johnny’s flames cut off enemy advances.
Ben’s raw strength smashes through obstacles, but his frustration is already simmering.
The Mole Man’s defeat is a victory, but not a clean one. His final words, "You’ve turned into monsters!", especially for Ben.

Critical Commentary: Heroism and Hidden Costs

This mission sets the tone for the FF’s future in two key ways:
They’re Protectors, Not Just Adventurers – Unlike other heroes, they don’t choose their powers, but they do choose to use them for good. The Mole Man’s defeat cements their role as Earth’s first line of defense.
Ben’s Anger Foreshadows His Arc – While the others adjust to their powers, Ben hates what he’s become. His rage here isn’t just about the fight, it’s the first sign of the self-loathing that will haunt him.
The art emphasizes this brilliantly: Ben’s monstrous form is drawn in shadow, while the others are lit heroically. It’s a visual clue that his struggle is just beginning.
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Ben Grimm's Turning Point: From Monster to Hero

Every hero has a moment when they must choose: walk away or rise to the challenge. In Fantastic Four Fanfare #3, Pages 11-13 deliver one of Ben Grimm's most powerful character arcs, his brief resignation from the team and the pivotal moment that cements his place as not just a member of the Fantastic Four, but as the heart of the group. This section blends raw emotion with superhero action, proving why Ben’s journey remains one of Marvel’s most compelling.

Ben’s Resignation: "I’m Done With Your Kooky Quartet!"

Fresh off their battle with the Mole Man, Ben reaches his breaking point. Unlike the others, he can’t hide what he’s become, his rocky exterior makes him feel like an outcast. In a heated moment, he tells Reed:
"I’m done with your kooky quartet! Y’hear me? I quit!"
This isn't just anger, it's self-loathing. Ben does not consider himself a hero, but a monster. But Reed, who always looks for solutions, doesn't argue. Instead, he tackles the real problem: the team's ship isn't suited for someone like Ben.
Reed’s Solution: He redesigns the controls, crafting a cockpit that fits Ben’s strength and size.
The Implied Message: "You’re not a burden, you’re essential."

Legacy Moment: "The Best Pilot in the Universe"

The story skips forward to a future mission, where the Avengers are in a tough situation facing a large group of alien ships. When Captain America hesitates to let Ben take charge, Reed insists:
"Trust me, Cap. He’s more than the best man for the job… he’s the best pilot in the universe."
And Ben delivers, maneuvering the ship with precision that leaves even seasoned heroes in awe. This callback isn’t just fan service, it’s proof of how far Ben has come. The kid who fought for a chance to fly is now the one the Avengers rely on.

Critical Commentary: Self-Acceptance and the Thing’s Role

This section beautifully reinforces two key themes:
Ben’s Insecurity vs. His Value – His initial resignation stems from feeling like a "freak," but Reed’s actions (not words) remind him that his differences make him uniquely capable.
The Fantastic Four’s Foundational Bond – While other teams form through duty or destiny, the FF’s unity comes from choosing each other, again and again.
The art reinforces this growth:
Early panels frame Ben in shadows, emphasizing his isolation.
Later, he’s front and center, bathed in light as he pilots the ship, a visual metaphor for stepping into his role.
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Ben Grimm's Defining Moments: Fists, Feuds, and Family

Many superhero stories focus on big dangers and global disasters, but Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 goes in a different direction, focusing on more personal and meaningful moments. In pages 14 to 23, there are two great stories that really highlight Ben Grimm's strength. One is a tough fight with a past enemy, and the other is a surprising team-up that shows heroism isn't just about having powers—it's about having real heart.

Thing vs. Sandman: "It's Clobberin' Time!"

The section kicks off with a classic Marvel slugfest, Ben Grimm vs. Flint Marko, the Sandman, in a deserted mining town. The fight is everything fans could want:
Brutal, Yet Funny: Ben’s one-liners ("Yer headed fer a major beatdown, my friend!") contrast with the sheer impact of each punch.
A big showdown between two strong fighters: Sandman's ever-changing body and Ben's unstoppable power create an exciting and imaginative fight scene.
Underlying Respect: Beneath the insults, there’s a grudging admiration, these are two tough guys who understand each other.
But this isn’t just filler action. The fight reveals Ben’s character: even when angry, he’s not cruel. He doesn’t aim to destroy Sandman, just to put him in his place.

Rescue Mission: From Enemies to Allies

During the fight, a collapsing mine suddenly crashes down, trapping a family inside. Right then, the situation changes completely:
Ben’s Priorities Change: He doesn’t hesitate, telling Sandman, "We’ll finish this later."
An Uneasy Truce: Sandman, despite his ego, helps stabilize the mine with his sand constructs.
The Real Heroism: Ben’s raw strength saves the day, but it’s his kindness that leaves a mark, especially when a rescued kid calls him "a real hero, like Captain America."
The moment is poignant because Ben doesn’t see himself that way, but the reader does.

Critical Commentary: Toughness vs. Compassion

This section excels by contrasting Ben’s two defining traits:
The Fighter: He loves a good scrap, and the Sandman duel delivers that in spades.
The Protector: When lives are at stake, his first instinct is to help, not win.
The art reinforces this duality:
Fight Scenes: Chaotic, dusty, and visceral, with Ben’s rocky form emphasized against Sandman’s fluidity.
Rescue Sequence: Framed with tighter, more intimate panels, focusing on the family’s fear and Ben’s determination.
It’s a reminder that Ben Grimm isn’t just the "heavy hitter" of the FF, he’s the moral compass when it counts.
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Johnny Storm's Cosmic Vanity and Ben's Unexpected Glory"

In a delightful shift of tone, Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 takes readers on an interstellar comedy of errors in Pages 24-33. What begins as Johnny Storm's ego-fueled interstellar adventure evolves into a clever satire of celebrity culture - with a heartwarming twist that puts Ben Grimm in the spotlight he never asked for (but absolutely deserves).

Cosmic Vanity: "Sexiest Being in the Universe"

The Human Torch has always been Marvel's resident showboat, but this storyline takes his self-confidence to cosmic proportions:
The Ultimate Ego Boost: Johnny receives an invitation declaring him the universe's sexiest being, complete with a gala ceremony in the Brilliant Galaxy
Family Reluctance: The team's reactions range from Sue's eye-rolling to Ben's groan of "Put on some pants. I'm beggin' ya..."
Visual Comedy: The art perfectly captures Johnny's preening poses against the others' deadpan expressions
This setup brilliantly plays with Johnny's established character while setting up the story's deeper themes about perception and worth.

Alien Deception: When Vanity Meets Geopolitics

The ceremony turns out to be anything but straightforward:
Warring Factions: The alien hosts are actually using the event to reignite an ancient conflict
FF as Mediators: The team must navigate alien politics while Johnny remains hilariously oblivious to the danger
Ben's Practical Heroism: While Johnny poses for photos, Ben's the one who notices something's wrong and steps up
The sequence masterfully balances humor with genuine tension, showing how the FF's dynamic works even in absurd situations.

The Twist: Ben Was the Real Winner All Along

In a perfect punchline to the storyline:
The Bait-and-Switch: The original invitation was meant for Ben, altered by the aliens to lure the Torch
Alien Perspective: To the warring factions, Ben's steadfast courage represents true "universal appeal"
Johnny's Reaction: His mix of indignation and begrudging respect for his brother-in-law is priceless
This twist isn't just funny - it reinforces the issue's recurring theme about Ben's quiet heroism.
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Every great comic leaves readers eager for more, and Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 delivers exactly that with its final page teasers (Page 34). As we finish up Johnny's space adventure, the story leaves some really interesting hints for future tales. These include Sue Storm's smart strategies and Ben Grimm's unexpected history. Let's look at what's coming and why these hints are important.

Upcoming Battles: Sue vs. Mole Man

The first tease hints at a rematch with one of the FF's oldest foes:
Sue's Moment to Shine: After mostly playing support in this issue, the Invisible Woman will take center stage against the Mole Man
Strategic Showdown: Expect mind games and subterranean warfare, with Sue's ingenuity tested against the Mole Man's monstrous forces
Deeper Conflict: Their history adds weight, this isn't just a fight, but a clash of ideologies
This promises to showcase why Sue is arguably the team's most dangerous member when pushed.

Sinister Carnival: A Family Affair

The second tease drops the FF into a classic horror trope with a Marvel twist:
Reed and Sue are probably dealing with mental challenges that are putting their relationship to the test
Ben and Alicia: Their bond may be challenged by illusions or manipulations
Johnny and Crystal, who were once in a romantic relationship, have a history that brings emotional tension to the story.
Visual Potential: Carnival settings allow for surreal, creepy imagery, perfect for showcasing each member's fears
This could be the FF's version of a haunted house story, blending action with character drama.

Ben's Wrestling Past: "The Thing" Before the Thing

The most intriguing tease revisits Ben's pre-hero days:
Throwback storytelling: Looking back at Ben's short time as a professional wrestler.
Character Insight: How did the experience shape his views on performance vs. real heroism?
Potential Cameos: Could we see vintage Marvel wrestlers like the Hooded Mask or The Destroyer?
Artistic Display: Dynamic, exaggerated activity is possible during wrestling scenes.
This deep dive into Ben's past could add new layers to Marvel's most lovable tough guy.
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A Critical FFF #3

Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 gives us all the great parts of Marvel's original team and adds new elements that enrich their long-standing history.This critical analysis breaks down what makes this issue shine - from its emotional core to its artistic triumphs - while acknowledging where it stumbles slightly. Let's examine why this installment stands out in the FF's storied history.

Thematic Depth: More Than Just Superheroics

The issue's strongest aspect is its exploration of three powerful themes:
Family: Not by blood, but by choice - seen in Reed's quiet gesture of rebuilding the ship for Ben
Identity: Ben's struggle with self-image contrasts beautifully with Johnny's overconfidence
Redemption: From Ben's early self-doubt to proving himself the universe's best pilot
These elements combine to create a story that feels both epic and intimately personal - a hallmark of the best FF tales.

Artistic Achievement: A Visual Feast

The artistic team delivers standout work:
Marcos Martin's Early Pages: Clean, dynamic layouts that capture both cosmic wonder and street-level emotion
Zdarsky/Allred's Section: Their signature pop-art style perfectly complements Johnny's over-the-top interstellar adventure
Key Visual Storytelling: The ship redesign scene (Page 11) uses negative space and body language to convey volumes without words
Colorists Muntsa Vicente and Laura Allred deserve special praise for:
Using warm hues for flashbacks
Cool tones for space sequences
Vibrant pops for Johnny's celebrity storyline

Narrative Highs and Lows

Standout Moment:
The ship cockpit redesign remains the emotional climax - a perfect marriage of writing and art that encapsulates the entire team's dynamic in one silent sequence.
Weakness:
While entertaining, Johnny's "Sexiest Being" subplot:
Feels tonally disconnected from Ben's heavier arc
Resolves a bit too conveniently
Could have been made shorter to focus more on the main ideas
That said, its twist ending (the award was meant for Ben) does provide a satisfying thematic payoff.

Final Assessment

Fantastic Four Fanfare #3 succeeds by:
✅ Delivering a compelling character study of Ben Grimm
✅ Balancing humor and heart throughout
✅ Showcasing stunning visual storytelling
✅ Respecting legacy while moving characters forward
While not perfect (the Johnny storyline could be tighter), it represents everything that makes the Fantastic Four timeless.
Rating: 8.5/10 - A must-read for FF fans and a great starting point for new readers.
What did you think of this issue's balance between humor and drama? Did the artistic styles work for you? Join the conversation below!