The Superhero Show #621
Fantastic Four: The Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2
The Superhero Show — Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2
This week, The Superhero Show continues its journey through the 1994 Fantastic Four animated series with “Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2.” After the setup and cosmic-ray chaos of the premiere, the hosts return to see how the newly empowered team handles their first real challenges as Marvel’s first family officially comes together.
Alongside their animated series coverage, the hosts once again dive into Ryan North’s Fantastic Four comic run—this time discussing Issue #2, where Reed and Sue find themselves trapped in a bizarre small town overrun by Doombots.
Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2: Becoming the Fantastic Four
The hosts kick things off with a full breakdown of “Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2,” discussing how the episode transitions from origin story into superhero adventure. With the team now fully transformed, the episode focuses on their growing pains as they attempt to work together while facing the looming threat of Doctor Doom.
They talk through the plot developments, the pacing of the episode, and how the series continues to establish the personalities and dynamics of the team. The conversation especially focuses on how quickly the show pushes the Fantastic Four into larger-than-life comic book action, embracing the exaggerated energy that defined many Marvel cartoons of the era.
Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2: Character Chemistry and Early Growing Pains
The hosts spend plenty of time discussing the characterizations in this second episode, debating which members of the team are already clicking and which still feel underdeveloped.
Reed’s overly serious scientific mindset, Johnny’s constant impulsiveness, Sue’s struggle for meaningful screen presence, and Ben Grimm’s emotional frustration all become major talking points. The hosts compare the animated portrayals to other versions of the characters and discuss whether the show captures the “family” aspect that makes the Fantastic Four unique within Marvel.
While there’s definitely some camp and inconsistency, the hosts admit there’s also a lot of charm in seeing these characters interact in such an unapologetically comic-book-style world.
First Impressions of the Series So Far
With two episodes completed, the hosts pause to reflect on their early impressions of the 1994 series overall. Is it better than its reputation suggests? Does it lean too heavily into cartoon absurdity? Or is that part of the fun?
This segment turns into a larger conversation about 90s Marvel animation as a whole, with the hosts discussing how Fantastic Four compares to other superhero cartoons from the era and whether the show has the potential to improve as it continues.
Ryan North’s Fantastic Four #2: Reed, Sue, and a Town Full of Doombots
In the second half of the episode, the hosts shift gears from animation to comics with a discussion of Ryan North’s Fantastic Four Issue #2.
The issue centers on Reed and Sue investigating a strange small town where the citizens may not be exactly what they seem—and where Doctor Doom’s influence hangs over everything through an army of Doombots. The hosts praise the issue’s balance of humor, mystery, and emotional storytelling, highlighting how well Ryan North writes Reed and Sue’s relationship.
They especially enjoy how the comic embraces weird sci-fi concepts while still grounding the story in character interactions, something they note the animated series sometimes struggles with. The discussion also touches on Doom’s presence in the issue and why Doombots continue to be one of Marvel’s most entertaining recurring ideas.
Final Thoughts — Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2
By the end of “Origin of the Fantastic Four Pt. 2,” The Superhero Show continues to find plenty to enjoy—and lovingly roast—about the 1994 animated series. Between the team’s evolving chemistry, the over-the-top storytelling, and the fun comparisons to Ryan North’s modern comic run, the episode delivers a mix of nostalgia, analysis, and comic book chaos.
As the hosts continue their Fantastic Four coverage, they’re clearly excited to see whether the animated series can grow into something truly fantastic—or remain a beautifully bizarre relic of 90s superhero television.
Are You a Research Nerd Who's Looking For More?
Here are some links for all your research wants and needs!
1994 Fantastic Four Animated Series
Ryan North's Fantastic Four
Join the discussions online! 1994 Fantastic Four Animated Series, Ryan North's Fantastic Four
Catch Up On Past Episodes!
Missed any of our past episodes? Catch up here
Read Along With Us!
Want to watch read with us? Of course you do! Here's a link Ryan North's Fantastic Four (Purchase Necessary)
