The Fantastic Four Get a Terrifying Makeover in Midnight

Marvel has introduced a dark new reality with the launch of Midnight: Fantastic Four. Written by Benjamin Percy with art by Kev Walker, this issue kicks off a horror version of the classic team. While readers know the group for their cosmic adventures, this version leans into disturbing imagery and unsettling character origins right from the start.

Reed Richards leads this grim story, but he is far from the hero we recognize. He begins the issue as an unstable pill addict plagued by horrific visions after losing his university job. The rest of the cast sees similar changes, with Sue Storm portrayed as manipulative, Johnny as a traumatized pilot, and Ben as a hardened thug. This shift in personality makes them difficult to like, which only adds to the cold, uncomfortable tone of the story.

Kev Walker provides art that captures this nightmare perfectly. Nothing in the pages feels beautiful, and the character designs are intentionally off putting. From the way trauma ages Reed to the graphic reveal of Victor Von Doom, the visuals ensure the reader feels the weight of this cursed reality. The color palette shifts between deep, haunting purples and toxic greens to keep the atmosphere consistently creepy.

This release shows that even the most optimistic heroes can fit into a dark, Lovecraftian style. If you want to see how this iconic family functions when stripped of their nobility, this is a must read. The first issue is available now at comic shops everywhere.