Set to become a pivotal part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) within the Multiverse Saga, The Fantastic Four: First Steps marks a significant revival for this legendary team. As the MCU continues to evolve, it opens up new avenues to not only introduce fresh characters from Marvel Comics but also reimagine those whose past adaptations fell short of expectations. The merger between Disney and Fox has paved the way for Marvel to integrate beloved characters from Fox’s film roster into the MCU, with The Fantastic Four being a prime example.
Initially brought to the screen in 1994, The Fantastic Four’s first film adaptation is shrouded in obscurity, as it was never officially released. Their mainstream cinematic introduction occurred in 2005, followed by a reboot in 2015 titled Fantastic Four, directed by Josh Trank. Unfortunately, that reboot was met with widespread critical backlash and disappointing box office performance, but now, the franchise has another opportunity to shine as part of Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Latest News on The Fantastic Four: First Steps
A Unique Cinematic Universe
Fans anticipated that The Fantastic Four: First Steps would inhabit its unique universe, a notion confirmed by director Matt Shakman. Discussing the creative direction in an interview with Empire, he stated:
“We are our own universe, which is wonderful and liberating. There’s really no [other] superheroes. There’s no Easter eggs. There’s no running into Iron Man or whatever. They’re it, in this universe. I love the interconnected Marvel Universe, but we get to do something so new and so different. Eventually, this world will meet up with other worlds — but for now this is our own little corner.”
This fresh approach is welcomed by audiences who appreciate the interconnected nature of the MCU but yearn for standalone narratives. By situating The Fantastic Four in an independent timeline, Shakman and the creative team can explore new stories without the limitations of the larger universe.
Release Date for The Fantastic Four: First Steps
A Summer Spectacle
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is scheduled for release on July 25, 2025, placing it strategically within the ongoing Multiverse Saga. This film’s development began over six years ago, since The Fantastic Four’s MCU inclusion was initially announced at the 2019 San Diego Comic-Con.
Director Jon Watts was originally brought on for the project in December 2020, but he later stepped down in April 2022. At the 2022 D23 event, Matt Shakman was subsequently appointed as the film’s new director.
The Cast of The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Unveiling a Stellar Ensemble
Marvel confirmed its primary cast on February 14, 2024, through a post on X. The announcement highlighted that Pedro Pascal will portray Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm—roles that fans have been eagerly anticipating.
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Mister Fantastic | Pedro Pascal |
| Invisible Woman | Vanessa Kirby |
| The Human Torch | Joseph Quinn |
| The Thing | Ebon Moss-Bachrach |
| Silver Surfer | Julia Garner |
| Galactus | Ralph Ineson |
| Undisclosed Role | Paul Walter Hauser |
| Undisclosed Role | John Malkovich |
| Undisclosed Role | Natasha Lyonne |
In a notable twist, March 3, 2024, revealed that the Silver Surfer would be portrayed as Shalla-Bal, deviating from the traditional Norrin Radd character. Julia Garner’s addition to this role is fitting considering her previous acclaimed performances in series like Ozark.
Trailer Insights for The Fantastic Four: First Steps
A Distinct Aesthetic
The teaser for The Fantastic Four: First Steps intriguingly embraces the 1960s retro-futuristic theme, setting a distinct tone that diverges from the typical MCU aesthetic.
The trailer hints at an exciting new direction for Marvel, aiming to capture the nostalgia of Marvel’s First Family. While it is light on action, it offers a compelling glimpse of the storyline, featuring a significant moment where Galactus looms over New York City in a manner true to the comics. However, details about the Silver Surfer and potential inclusion of Doctor Doom remain undisclosed.
Predictions for The Story of The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Rising Threat of Galactus
During a discussion on The Official Marvel Podcast, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige elaborated on the film’s status as a period piece, indirectly supporting Shakman’s confirmation that The Fantastic Four: First Steps exists in its own universe. His comments suggested a creative approach focused on a unique depiction of New York:
“Yes, yes, very much so. It is a period… There were a lot of smart people, who noticed that that cityscape didn’t look exactly like the New York that we know, or the New York that existed in the ’60s in our world. And those are smart observations, I’ll say.”
This narrative choice likely explains the absence of The Fantastic Four from previous MCU films, positioning them in a retro 1960s environment. As a result, the concluding events may bridge into the next Avengers saga, paving the way for their encounter with multiverse elements.
The core conflict will center around Galactus’s sinister intent to consume their Earth, with the Silver Surfer serving as one of his heralds. This establishes Galactus as a significant player not only in this film but potentially moving forward in the MCU.
Additionally, hints suggest a personal battle involving Doctor Doom, whose longstanding rivalry with Mr. Fantastic could provide a compelling subplot. As Avengers: Doomsday approaches, the speculation points to the introduction of Doctor Doom within this narrative, enhancing the stakes moving forward.
Given the cast compositions, including a potential Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, the film promises to deliver a narrative rich in iconic superhero confrontation and dynamic storytelling. This layer of intrigue positions The Fantastic Four: First Steps as not just a reboot but a foundational piece for future Marvel projects.
Integrating Into the MCU Timeline
A New Earth in the Multiverse
The Fantastic Four: First Steps will kick off Phase 6 of the MCU, ultimately setting the stage for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. The most notable aspect is its unique timeline—the film is set in a reimagined 1960s that intertwines with the wider multiverse.
Although the immediate impact on the sacred MCU timeline may be limited, its positioning as an alternate Earth raises compelling questions. As The Fantastic Four are expected to play roles in both Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, the culmination of their story arc may provide crucial links to the overarching narrative.
As Marvel prepares to introduce its First Family into the broader MCU, fans are eager to see how these characters will navigate their path within the Multiverse. With engaging storylines and dynamic character arcs, The Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to be an exhilarating entry in the MCU canon.