5 Must-Read Comics Before Fantastic Four Hits Theaters This July
- George Dowling
- May 13
- 3 min read
The Fantastic Four are finally joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe this July — and if you want to fully appreciate Marvel’s First Family when they hit the big screen, it’s time to dig into the comics that made them iconic.
But don’t worry, you don’t need to read hundreds of random issues. Here’s a list of the most essential series runs, written by legendary creators who redefined the team through science, family drama, and cosmic-level storytelling.
Let’s break down the top five Fantastic Four runs you should check out before the MCU movie drops:
Stan Lee & Jack Kirby’s Original Run (1961–1970)
The Birth of Marvel’s First Family
This is where it all started — the cosmic rays, the spaceship crash, and the powers that changed everything. Lee and Kirby didn’t just create a superhero team; they created a dysfunctional, lovable family who also fought planet-eating gods and interdimensional threats.
You’ll meet Doctor Doom, Galactus, the Silver Surfer, and even the Inhumans — all in their first appearances. It’s old-school, yes, but still wildly imaginative and foundational to everything that followed.
Amazon➡️ https://amzn.to/4djeLbx
John Byrne’s Definitive Run (1981–1986)
The Run That Made the FF Cool Again
Byrne took everything great about the Fantastic Four and sharpened it. This run made Sue Storm a true powerhouse, explored Ben Grimm’s emotional depth, and brought the sci-fi back in a big way.
From The Trial of Galactus to time travel with Doctor Doom, Byrne’s run is dramatic, emotional, and action-packed. If you only read one classic era, make it this one.
Amazon➡️ https://amzn.to/4iX73F1
Mark Waid & Mike Wieringo’s Run (2002–2005)
The Modern Classic Full of Heart
This is the FF at their most human and heroic. Waid and Wieringo deliver a heartfelt, high-stakes run that dives deep into the family bond — while still giving us Doom-powered magic, alternate dimensions, and Galactus being reborn.
It’s an emotional rollercoaster with gorgeous art, perfect for new readers and longtime fans alike.
Amazon➡️ https://amzn.to/4dfaGoF
Jonathan Hickman’s Epic Run (2009–2012)
The Sci-Fi Saga That Changed Everything
If you love complex storytelling, long-term payoffs, and mind-bending science fiction, this run is for you. Hickman builds a massive narrative arc full of alternate universes, the Future Foundation, and one of the most powerful versions of Reed Richards ever written.
It’s epic in every sense and a huge inspiration for any future multiverse stories in the MCU.
Amazon➡️ https://amzn.to/44wb3cc
Ryan North & Iban Coello’s Current Run (2022–Present)
A Fresh, Modern Jumping-On Point
Issues: Fantastic Four (Vol. 7) #1 – ongoing
Writer: Ryan North
Artist: Iban Coello
New to Fantastic Four? This is the run for you. North and Coello are telling smaller, character-focused stories with a sense of wonder and mystery. It’s heartfelt, funny, and smart — without needing any backstory to enjoy.
Plus, if the movie goes for a more grounded, family-driven tone, this run is probably the closest match.
Amazon➡️ https://amzn.to/3F1l2fi
The Fantastic Four have decades of incredible stories — but these five runs capture the soul of the team: science, exploration, heart, and family.
Read any of these, and you’ll walk into the movie theater this July with a deeper appreciation for why the Fantastic Four are so much more than stretchy powers and blue suits.
Got your reading list? Hit those links and get clobberin’.
NerdCanvas
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