The Fantastic Four: First Steps debuted at #1 at the domestic box office – marking the 37th consecutive Marvel Cinematic Universe film to open in the top spot. The triumphant Fantastic Four: First Steps marks the eponymous team’s debut in the MCU timeline. Along with delivering the best Fantastic Four movie ever, Marvel managed to maintain their impressive box office record.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps dominated the box office on its opening weekend, earning the coveted top spot. As observed by X user CultureCrave, it’s the 37th movie to do so, meaning that every single MCU movie has been #1 on its release weekend. That’s more than just an impressive streak; it’s a historic benchmark no other franchise in cinema history has come close to achieving.
Despite the less favorable Fantastic Four movies, First Steps still drew crowds with its powerful storytelling, fresh character interpretations, and high-concept cosmic stakes. It proves the MCU can still surprise audiences while retaining its box office dominance. The movie’s success signals more than just popularity – it’s further proof of Marvel’s unmatched staying power in the theatrical landscape.
What The MCU’s Box Office Record Means
37 consecutive films topping the box office opening weekend is not just a fun trivia stat, it’s a seismic industry achievement. No other studio, franchise, or cinematic universe has delivered that level of sustained performance. For context, even major blockbuster franchises like Star Wars, The Fast Saga, or Jurᴀssic World have stumbled at some point. Marvel hasn’t.
From 2008’s Iron Man through Avengers: Endgame, and now to First Steps, the MCU’s ability to remain commercially viable is nearly unprecedented. It speaks to more than brand loyalty – it reflects careful planning, consistent quality control, and the ability to innovate within a shared universe. Even when experimenting with tone or format, audiences continue showing up.
Our Take On The MCU’s Box Office Record
While box office numbers are just one measure of success, this streak tells a deeper story about the MCU’s relationship with its audience. The fact that The Fantastic Four: First Steps – a stylistically distinct, emotionally introspective film with limited live-action elements – could continue that streak speaks volumes. Marvel has earned trust.
Audiences no longer show up just for the action or the spectacle – they show up because they expect emotional payoff, thematic resonance, and long-term storytelling. It also highlights Marvel’s confidence in taking creative risks. Recasting the Silver Surfer as Shalla-Bal and shifting the genre to retro-futurism were bold moves.
That they still result in box office domination suggests that Marvel’s foundation is more than superheroes in capes. It’s strong characters, emotional truth, and evolving storytelling. The streak isn’t just about staying power, it’s earned staying power, exemplified by The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
Source: CultureCrave
