It seems like just yesterday that the Fantastic Four: The Rise of the Silver Surfer was out in theaters, can it really be available on DVD already? Of course it is, the Fall DVD releases have been coming fast and furious since the beginning of September with multiple television seasons coming out and now we’re getting all the summer hits.
Why Pick Up the DVD?
One of the big selling points of the Fantastic Four is that they aren’t just a team of super-heroes, they are a family. As a family, they make mistakes. They do things wrong. They hurt feelings. They apologize. Yet, as a family, they are always there for each other (whether it’s Johnny blackmailing Reed into a bachelor party or Sue hurrying the reverend along to pronounce them man and wife so they can save Venice) and this 92 minute film manages to capture that.
Their innate human qualities are brought home further by the arrival of the Silver Surfer. Marvel fans have always enjoyed this unique character that is deeply sympathetic, yet completely alien and unapologetically so. The director and CGI effects along with Laurence Fishburne deliver the Silver Surfer in all his alien glory and it sets up a brilliant juxtaposition between our imperfect, utterly human team and this alien being with unimaginable power.
Good for the Kids
The film clocks in at 92 minutes, which is a decent length for children age 6 to 10. The violence is bloodless and the tension is sustained more through the chase sequences and the looming dark cloud that is Galactus. Parents of sensitive children should note there is a moment where Sue Storm “dies” after taking a stab meant for the Surfer. It’s very poignant, but she is rapidly healed by the Surfer and returned to life – so all is good.
Currently, Amazon is listing the DVD for $14.99 and that’s a great price. This film is already in the Christmas pack hidden away as a surprise for the little one, so you might consider it a worthwhile investment as a Christmas Present.