Minor spoilers for The Improbable 4: First Steps lie forward, so maintain that in thoughts as you learn on, true believers!
The Improbable 4: First Steps ushers the titular workforce into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in wonderful vogue. Whereas Matt Shakman’s movie affords up retro-futuristic vibes and cosmic motion, it really succeeds in the way in which that it highlights the heroic quartet. Consequently, followers are stanning Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm, and I’m impressed by how Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm improves upon previous iterations of the character. Nonetheless, as I proceed to consider this MCU movie, there’s one supporting participant I actually suppose ought to have extra time to shine.
Which Character Is Underutilized In First Steps?
As a lot as I take pleasure in MCU movies (which I’ve helped rank), even I can acknowledge Marvel has a nasty behavior of casting main actors and underusing them. (Ask Idris Elba, Mads Mikkelsen and Michael Stuhlbarg.) Within the case of First Steps, Natasha Lyonne will get the quick finish of the stick. The at all times pleasant Lyonne performs Rachel Rozman, a faculty instructor who kinds a reference to Ben Grimm. Rachel seems in just a few scenes, together with one the place she speaks to Ben on the road and one other through which the pair meet once more inside a synagogue.
Lyonne (who’s pictured above in one other manufacturing as a result of an absence of Rachel pics) is efficient amid her scenes. Additionally, the actress herself even loved attending to flirt on display with co-star (and real-life buddy) Moss-Bachrach. But Lyonne’s presence feels far too restricted, and that’s an actual disgrace. Rachel is a transparent illustration of the human life that the FF are working so laborious to guard. If her function within the movie had been greater, she might’ve helped to additional floor the narrative, which is chock stuffed with over-the-top parts.
Ben Grimm’s arc additionally might’ve been significantly enhanced had Rachel been round extra. Sure, I applauded Shakman and co. for not making Grimm (a.okay.a. The Factor) a extra tragic character however a extra upbeat particular person. Nonetheless, shedding additional mild on the do-gooder’s romantic prospect might’ve introduced out much more sides to him and in addition fleshed out Rachel much more. I personally love the considered the 2 characters getting a while to speak about their professions, hobbies and shared Jewish religion. Alas, it simply wasn’t meant to be.
What May The Future Maintain For Rachel Rozman?
Whereas Rachel’s small function is disappointing, there’s the chance that followers will get to see extra of her down the highway. Throughout Disney’s most up-to-date earnings name, firm CEO Bob Iger not solely referred to Improbable 4 as an “unique property,” however he additionally referred to the franchise as being “vital.” Iger didn’t affirm nor deny {that a} sequel is within the works (possible as a result of First Steps’ considerably underwhelming field workplace efficiency). Nonetheless, given the exec’s emphasis on the IP’s significance, perhaps a follow-up isn’t out of the playing cards.
On that notice, I’d be mighty stunned if Lyonne weren’t introduced again if a sequel had been to be greenlit. Shakman might definitely use a follow-up to spend extra time with Rachel and additional develop her relationship with Ben. Ideally, followers would get to see their romance absolutely blossom.
I’m not solely hoping for a follow-up to First Steps but additionally that Rachel Rozman receives her due. There have, sadly, been too many situations through which Marvel Studios has wasted impeccable actors, and I’d hate to see MCU beginner Natasha Lyonne fall into that class.
Take a look at The Improbable 4: First Steps in theaters now alongside different 2025 film releases. Additionally, stream different MCU installments and movies centered on Marvel’s First Household utilizing a Disney+ subscription.