This page may contain one or more affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a product through that link, I may receive compensation. The links will be identified with the text "affiliate link". Click to learn more.
Fans of The Fantastic Four may be familiar with the various things associated with the super-hero team. But did you know that a lot of them were shown for the first time in the third issue of the original comic series? As crazy as it sounds, the group started out without costumes, vehicles, or a headquarters to live in. This quickly changed as the series continued, since the books were selling, and it warranted that the characters should get an upgrade. Here is a quick run-down of these new items that became iconic with the FF.
For those who don’t know, The Fantastic Four, created by Marvel Comics legends Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, are a superhero team consisting of four individuals who gained extraordinary powers after being exposed to cosmic radiation during a space mission. There is Reed Richards, who can stretch and manipulate his body, Sue Richards who can turn invisible, Johnny Storm who can fly and make himself on fire, and Ben Grimm, a super-strong character with rock-like skin. Together, they use their unique abilities to protect Earth from various threats while navigating the complexities of their personal lives.
Baxter Building
Every superhero team needs a headquarters, and in this case it is the Baxter Building. It is a 35-story building on Madison Avenue. We get to see it in detail in issue three of Fantastic Four. Although it is declared to be a secret, later issues imply that it is not. The detailed image on page five shows that it contains a place for a plane, a helicopter, and even a vehicle hangar for the Fantasticar (which will be explained later in this article.) It contains a lot of science-related stuff like a photo analysis room, laboratory, and an observatory. But the most interesting thing is a long-range passenger missile that can reach any part of the world in minutes, complete with launching pad. These many forms of transportation for the group apparently helps expedite their tasks and missions. It has everything that you would expect to be in a superhero headquarters.
One of the most memorable moments involving Spider-Man and the Baxter Building occurs in The Amazing Spider-Man #1. In this issue, Peter Parker, struggling to make ends meet, decides to join The Fantastic Four, hoping to get paid. To prove his worth, he breaks into the Baxter Building, only to be caught in a trap. Seen here is a demonstration of the computer and security systems that are presented as an obstacle. Despite this, he manages to escape and takes on each member of Marvel’s first family. This encounter not only showcases Spider-Man’s resourcefulness and determination but also sets the stage for his long-standing relationship with the group.
In the iconic comic storyline Days of Future Past, the Baxter Building takes on a darker role. Set in a dystopian future, the building is repurposed as the headquarters for the Sentinels, the robotic enforcers hunting mutants. The X-Men, in their desperate attempt to stop the Sentinels and alter the grim future, infiltrate the Baxter Building to disable their operations. This storyline showcases the building’s significance beyond just being The Fantastic Four’s headquarters, highlighting its importance in the broader Marvel universe.
In addition to its comic book appearances, the Baxter Building has also made its way into various video games. For instance, in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, the building is located in the northeast corner of Hell’s Kitchen and is marked with a giant number 4 logo on its rooftop. This nod to The Fantastic Four adds depth to the game’s world and hints at their existence in Insomniac’s Marvel universe. Similarly, in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes, the Baxter Building serves as the backdrop for several levels, including “Times Square Off” and “Magnetic Personality.” These appearances in popular games allow fans to explore the iconic headquarters in interactive and engaging ways, further cementing its place in the Marvel universe.
Fantasticar
Perhaps the most famous (or infamous) of The Fantastic Four’s vehicles has to be the Fantasticar. Making its debut in the 3rd comic, It’s a self-driven hover-craft device that provides convenient transportation for the team and is able to land on its own. Its odd shape and appearance has helped make it iconic. With an elongated shape with round corners and light color, it is sometimes likened to a bathtub. Also seen in the same debut comic is the Fantasticar splitting up into four separate pieces, providing transport for all four team members individually. This is quite a unique aspect that helps it stand out from other vehicles.
The popularity of this floating car has made its way into other media, such as Deadpool & Wolverine. In the 2007 film Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, the vehicle was given a sleek, modern look with advanced technology, including the ability to fly at high speeds and reach impressive altitudes. The Fantasticar’s versatility and unique design have made it a beloved icon among fans, symbolizing the team’s adventurous spirit and cutting-edge technology.
A superhero team’s vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a symbol of their unity, resourcefulness, and technological prowess. For the group, the Fantasticar embodies their innovative spirit and ability to tackle challenges head-on. It allows them to respond quickly to crises and travel to distant locations. The vehicle’s unique design and advanced features, such as its ability to split into separate sections, highlight the team’s collaborative nature and adaptability. Having a dedicated vehicle also reinforces the team’s identity, making them instantly recognizable and enhancing their presence both in the Marvel universe and in the eyes of their fans.
Costumes
Would you believe that The Fantastic Four didn’t have costumes until their third comic? Sue Richards created the iconic blue jumpsuits in this issue, arguing that if they are to be taken seriously as a superhero team, they should wear matching outfits. Throughout the years, their costumes have been altered in different ways, but they always seem to have the number four in the center of their chests, representing The Fantastic Four logo.
Superhero costumes are more than just stylish outfits; they are a crucial part of a team’s identity and functionality. For The Fantastic Four, their iconic blue jumpsuits symbolize their unity and professionalism. These costumes, designed by Sue Richards, not only make them easily recognizable but also serve practical purposes. Made from unstable molecules, the suits can adapt to the wearer’s powers, providing protection and flexibility during battles. The consistent presence of the number four logo on their chests reinforces their brand and legacy, making them stand out in the Marvel universe. Over the years, while the designs have evolved, the core elements of their costumes have remained, reflecting the team’s enduring spirit and commitment to their mission.
Significance
In summary, the third issue (affiliate link) of the original Fantastic Four comic series marked a significant turning point for the superhero team, introducing iconic elements that have become synonymous with their identity. From the establishment of their headquarters in the Baxter Building to the debut of their unique vehicle, the Fantasticar, and the creation of their matching blue costumes, these additions have solidified the team’s place in the Marvel universe. The Baxter Building, with its advanced technology and strategic location, serves as a central hub for their operations, while the Fantasticar’s innovative design and versatility symbolize their resourcefulness and unity. The costumes, designed by Sue Richards, not only enhance their professional image but also provide practical benefits, adapting to their powers and ensuring their safety during missions.
These elements, introduced early in the series, have not only defined The Fantastic Four’s visual and functional identity but have also played a crucial role in their adventures and interactions with other Marvel characters. Whether it’s Spider-Man’s memorable encounter with the Baxter Building’s security systems or the building’s darker role in the “Days of Future Past” storyline, the headquarters has proven to be a significant location in the broader Marvel universe. Similarly, the Fantasticar’s appearances in various media, from films to video games, highlight its enduring popularity and the team’s innovative spirit. Together, these iconic features continue to captivate fans and reinforce The Fantastic Four’s legacy as pioneering superheroes.