I had high hopes for the last Fantastic Four film, but like many fans of the First Family of comics, I was disappointed by the Josh Trank-directed movie. However, I found no fault with the actors' performances, particularly Michael B. Jordan's portrayal of Johnny Storm. It is no secret that Jordan is one of the best actors working in Hollywood right now (just look at Creed), so when IGN reported Jordan would play Johnny Storm again if asked, I couldn't help but get excited.
Of course, it's all preemptive; there are currently no set plans for a Fantastic Four sequel, as the film's less-than-stellar debut reportedly caused its studio to halt plans for an immediate follow-up. Yet Jordan took a very diplomatic approach when talking about the original movie, and its response from fans and critics. "I look back at the film as a learning experience," Jordan told IGN. "Every film isn’t going to be a home run. Everybody involved didn’t set out to make a film that didn’t work. I think everybody wants to do the best job possible. I think it was a big education for me to realize that things aren’t in your control, and you can do everything you’re supposed to do. You can give 110 percent every day, and the movie still not work out. But that may or may not be on you and you’ve got to be OK with that."
Those are seriously wise words from a star on the rise. It's interesting to hear that Jordan, a self-professed comic book fan, still loves Johnny Storm and if the opportunity to play the character came around again, he would be happy to suit up once more. When IGN asked if he would take on Johnny again if asked, Jordan said, "Johnny Storm is an incredible character. Why not?"
Personally, I think the actor should definitely get another shot at the wise-cracking Johnny — just with a better story surrounding the character. When Jordan was faced with backlash over playing a character who was drawn as white in the comics, he penned an essay that was downright heroic. Jordan is exactly the kind of actor I want to see playing a superhero. He has the charisma, talent, and enthusiasm needed to bring Johnny to life on the big screen if 20th Century Fox or Marvel decide to give the Fantastic Four franchise another chance. If they do, here's hoping they Jordan play Johnny once more with all of the character's smart-ass humor and heroism, because magic would most certainly happen.
Even if the Fantastic Four are retired for the foreseeable future, Marvel and DC should be courting Jordan for another hero role. Poised, talented young actors with a passion for comics don't come along often, and Jordan always gives his all to his projects, including Fantastic Four, so I am sure he would commit 100 percent to any superhero role he took on. I hope one day he gets to flame on as Johnny Storm again, but more than that, I just want to see him get heroic once more. If anyone deserves a second shot at saving the world — or reviving a franchise — it's Jordan.
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