Fantastic Four (1994)

About the Fantastic Four

The Fantastic Four is an American animated television series based on the Marvel Comics' team of the same name. Produced by Saban Entertainment and New World Entertainment, it is comprised of 26 episodes over two seasons that aired from 24th September 1994 to 24th February 1996. This series rectifies the comic lore of the Fantastic Four, a group of astronauts who gain superpowers after their space shuttle is exposed to cosmic rays.

Making/Production

The series was produced by Avi Arad, Tom Tataranowicz, and Winston Richard. Interestingly, the characters’ design was inspired by the stylings of Jack Kirby and John Byrne, two influential comic artists who considerably contributed to the Fantastic Four's comic's visual universe. The series was praised for staying true to its source material, even directly adopting storylines from the original comic issues.

Actors

• Beau Weaver as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic - Weaver brings a sense of nobility and duty to Richard’s character, effectively portraying him as the group’s steadfast leader.
• Lori Alan as Susan Storm/The Invisible Woman - Alan manages to embody the assertiveness and intelligence of Susan Storm while highlighting her nurturing side.
• Chuck McCann as Ben Grimm/The Thing - McCann excels in depicting Grimm's tough exterior paired with a surprisingly tender heart.
• Quinton Flynn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch - Flynn infuses Johnny Storm with a youthful excitement and brashness that perfectly contrast his mature counterparts.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• This series includes a guest appearance from the iconic Marvel character, Thor.
• Several of the direct-to-video Marvel Action Hour shorts were edited into episodes of this series.
• Stan Lee, the co-creator of Fantastic Four, provided the opening narration for each episode.

Awards

While 'Fantastic Four' (1994) did not secure any notable awards, it is fondly remembered by fans of classic animation and the Marvel universe, forming a key part of Marvel's foray into animated series.

Quotes

• "Face it, tiger, you just hit the jackpot." - Mary Jane Watson
• "I'm the best there is at what I do, but what I do isn't very nice." - Wolverine
• "I am Groot." - Groot

Soundtrack

• The music for the series was composed by William Kevin Anderson, contributing significantly to the series' overall mood.
• The show's memorable theme tune, 'Fantastic Four', was performed by Giorgio Moroder.