Fantastic Four # 1 2014 NM-

Fantastic Four # 1 February 26, 2014 (Vol. 5) launched as part of the "All-New Marvel NOW!" initiative. It begins the "Fall of the Fantastic Four" arc, a storyline characterized by a darker tone that examines the possible dismantling of Marvel's first family. 

"The Fall of the Fantastic Four" (Part 1)

The story is framed as a letter from Susan Storm to her children, Franklin and Valeria, explaining how their lives began to unravel. 

• The Catalyst: The issue opens with the team in the middle of a massive battle against Fin Fang Foom in Manhattan. While the heroes successfully defeat the dragon, the collateral damage is immense and serves as the starting point for a public backlash against the team.
• The Family Fractures: Personal losses add to the team's strain. Valeria Richards has recently left her parents to live with her godfather, Doctor Doom, out of anger toward her father's secrets.
• Personal Struggles:
• The Thing visits Alicia Masters, hoping to reconcile their relationship.
• The Human Torch prepares for a rock 'n' roll career, signing a contract that forbids him from dimension-hopping or going on dangerous space missions while on tour.
• The Cliffhanger: The "beginning of the end" arrives as mysterious insectile creatures emerge from a doorway to Gateway F, launching a fresh attack on New York City. 

• Thematic Shift: Unlike the high-adventure tone of previous runs (like Jonathan Hickman's), this series focuses on systematically stripping the team of their resources, reputation, and family bonds.
• Red Costumes: This era is visually distinct for the team's red and white costumes, replacing the traditional blue. 

• Writer: James Robinson
• Artist: Leonard Kirk
• Inker: Karl Kesel
• Colorist: Jesus Aburtov