Critics and fanboys alike are having a field day in carving up the latest installment in the 'Fantastic Four' series.  While some of the criticism has merit, most of it needs to be dismissed as typical fodder we often hear.  "Silver Surfer" captures the spirit of the comic book its based on quite effectively and that is a critical point in finding enjoyment with this picture.

 

The film, as everyone in the Milky Way is aware of, is focused on the cinematic debut of the iconic 'Silver Surfer,' who shows up on planet earth bearing ominous signs.  This lends itself to a stylish, mysterious opening sequence to the movie in which we see hints of the destruction that might come to bear, courtesy the Surfer and his master, Galactus.  The arrival of the Surfer interrupts the wedding plans of Reed Richards and Sue Storm, who are caught in the eye of the media in their attempt to wed. The wedding plans play as a subplot to the main story as does the quest of Johnny Storm who tries to rid himself of the lonliness that a bachelor's life offers.  While all these story elements are sprinkled in, the main crux here is of the Surfer and his introduction to the franchise, which is pulled off with magnificent style and direction.  Indeed, the Surfer might very well be the best comic to screen adaptation of any character I can recall making such a transition.

 

Not wasting any time, the plot moves along briskly, thus avoiding the mistakes of recent summer hits (Pirates 3 and Spiderman 3) in which a 3 hour running time is the norm.  The rapid pace of the movie also helps cover up the mistakes that this film has, most notably with Jessica Alba's performance in the first half of the feature and a few other flimsy lines that are spoken amongst the characters. 

 

Ultimately, the story hits its peak in the final half hour where the action scenes take over and the film's best special effects are rendered.  The climactic sequence also brings out a full rendition of the Silver Surfer music theme from Composer John Ottman, which further adds to the (ahem) fantastic finish that is conjured up. If nothing else, this film is effective in building up to its climax as well as offering a wonderful payoff that will make the fans root on for a third installment. 

 

Fantastic Four 2 is a good natured, PG style comic book film.  That alone should be welcome by most.  But what makes this film succeed beyond its flaws are the parts in which the production team gets it right and grants us entertainment that this summer season had been lacking.  That, and the careful manner in which the Surfer character is developed throughout the story makes this one a guilty pleasure with merit.  Recommended!