Fantastic Four #12 — Ryan North and Patrick Boutin Send the Team Back to Ancient Rome
When an alien invasion targets the past, Reed and Johnny are the only ones who make it back to Ancient Rome. With history on the line, can the two most chaotic members of the team actually save the world without causing more chaos?
There’s a specific kind of magic that happens when you pair Ryan North’s writing with Patrick Boutin’s art in the Fantastic Four book. North has this wonderful knack for finding the heart in high-concept sci-fi, and Boutin brings that same warmth to the visuals. It’s a partnership that feels less like a corporate assignment and more like two friends who just really enjoy hanging out in this universe.
The setup here is delightfully classic Marvel: aliens have tried attacking Earth many times, only to realize the Fantastic Four are a tough nut to crack. So, the invaders change tactics. They decide to hit us where we’re least prepared — in Ancient Rome. The plan is clever in a terrifying way, but it has one fatal flaw: Reed and Johnny actually make it back in time before the timeline gets erased. Or, at least, they start to.
Now, here is the fun part. You know Reed and Johnny. They are the best of friends, but they are also a disaster waiting to happen. Throwing two of the most impulsive members of the team into the heart of the Roman Empire, with the fate of history hanging in the balance, is a recipe for incredible chaos. The promise of them navigating ancient politics while trying to push back an alien threat is just irresistible.
What makes this issue such a joy to read is how North leans into the character dynamics. It’s not just about saving the world; it’s about watching these two try to keep their heads above water while fundamentally changing the way Reed stretches and solves problems. It’s a fresh take on the team’s chemistry, grounded in humor but packed with genuine stakes.
If you’ve been enjoying this run, keep an eye on the cover art by Humberto Ramos. He’s always a treat to look at, and there’s a particular variant that tends to move through the stacks quickly. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to grab early just to hold onto that vibe a bit longer. Trust me, it’s a great one to have on the shelf.