Three and a half stars (out of four)

Usually sequels don't do much for me, but "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" made this one happen. the Silver Surfer was a personal comic book favorite of mine as a youth, and I was nearly crushed when the film introduced him as a world destroyer. Say it ain't so. The quirky, powerful superheroes, distracted by fame and a tabloid wedding, find the world in turmoil by natural anomalies.

Global warming has nothing to do with these strange occurrences. It's Galactus who sends the Silver Surfer to drain all the heavenly bodies of their energy, all in the name of love.

Ahh, our heroes: the super-smart groom Reed Richard (Ioan Gruffudd) and bride-to-be, invisible force field girl Sue Storm (Jessica Alba), her brother, flying flame guy Steve Storm (Chris Evans) and sensitive, cuddly, rock-thing Ben Grimm (Mike Chiklis) put aside their interpersonal differences and fight against a seemingly insurmountable foe.

For two hours of good old-fashioned easy-to-follow superhero family fun, I give the "Fantastic Four" three-and-a-half stars. I smell another sequel.

-- Mike Griffin

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Three and a half stars (out of four)

This is a fun movie.

The superheroes -- The Human Torch, The Thing, Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman -- have really cool powers. For those who follow these comic book characters, you know who and what the Silver Surfer is and will be thrilled at the wickedness of the true villain.

The special effects are amazing and the story line keeps you drawn to the movie. I can say the space images and out-of-this-world concepts will delight all who love this genre.

Parents: A little bit of cursing, but not too bad.

If you are going to see this movie, don't wait for the DVD. It's definitely a must-see on the big screen.

-- Michelle Griffin

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Four stars (out of four)

The crew of the Fantastic Four makes a triumphant return in the second chapter of the Marvel-based movie franchise.

My young proteges were completely gratified by the quick-paced plot and the superhero action. Things seem to be going well as wedding bells ring for Reed and Susan, but new troubles are on the horizon when the Silver Surfer crashes the party and emerges as a new and powerful foe.

Director Tim Story made amazing upgrades in the plot line and cinematography, creating one of the summer's best films. Additionally, he has incorporated many surprises, so fans should get their snacks beforehand. Initially we see Von Doom back in his homeland of Latveria, but don't be fooled; his retirement is short-lived. This is a fun film for the entire family. I give "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" two thumbs up.

-- Jerry Swan