Hickman’s Fantastic Four run has the promise of being one for the ages – but it’s still just a potential – something’s got to change soon to translate that potential energy into something useful. Each issue introduces new elements of an epic story. Locations span wildly: from Reed Richards’ quiet college dorm room to a battle of cosmic significance. Such is the life of the Richards Family – on one page we’re in a scene in the family kitchen that cuts directly to the edge of the heat death of the universe. That crazy transition feels very “classic Stan & Jack” Marvel Comics; well done, Hickman.

The story is intentionally mysterious and its connections are sometimes hard to follow. So far, the deep family bonds of the FF are acting as a safety net to keep it all together. This issue finally unveils what is at stake in this story. The fate of Reed and Sue Richard’s children hang in the balance. It’s taken a while to get to this point, but it feels like we’re on the cusp on a major pivot point. This story should begin to feel like it’s hitting its stride soon, or, all this epic stage-setting will feel like it’s been all for naught. I’m enjoying its multi-layered ideas so far, but a meaningful engagement with the characters hasn’t fully developed yet.