Marvel Studios has officially kicked off a thrilling new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the highly anticipated debut of The Fantastic Four: First Steps trailer.
Unveiled at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, the event set the stage for a cinematic journey that promises to redefine Marvel’s First Family. With the iconic Saturn V rocket as a backdrop, stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach counted down to the trailer’s launch, captivating fans worldwide.
A New Era for the Fantastic Four
Set against the vibrant aesthetic of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, The Fantastic Four: First Steps reintroduces Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most formidable challenge yet. The team must balance their superhero responsibilities with their familial bond while taking on the cosmic threat of Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer, portrayed by Julia Garner.
The teaser also confirmed a stellar supporting cast, including Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles. Directed by Matt Shakman and produced by Marvel mastermind Kevin Feige, the film is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, launching Phase 6 of the MCU.
Where is Doctor Doom?
While Galactus looms large as the film’s primary antagonist, fans can’t help but wonder about another major Marvel villain—Doctor Doom. Speculation has been running wild ever since Marvel confirmed that The Avengers: Doomsday will feature Robert Downey Jr. in the role of Doom. However, the First Steps teaser offers no direct hints about his presence, opting instead to focus on the Fantastic Four’s battle with Galactus and Silver Surfer.
Doctor Doom is confirmed for ‘FANTASTIC FOUR FIRST STEPS’
(via @JimmyKimmelLive) pic.twitter.com/o3qXmYhKPr
— Marvel Update (@update_marvel) January 8, 2025
Marvel did confirm that Doctor Doom would make his debut in The Fantastic Four: Fist Steps but how involved he will be in the film is still to be seen. Whether he emerges in a post-credits scene or plays a subtle part in the background, First Steps is positioned to set the stage for his full debut in The Avengers: Doomsday in 2026.
Galactus Takes Center Stage
The teaser highlights the overwhelming presence of Galactus, who is depicted in full humanoid form towering over the Statue of Liberty—an exciting departure from the cloud-like interpretation seen in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). The film seems to be drawing from the legendary “Galactus Trilogy” storyline, where the cosmic entity arrives to consume Earth, forcing the Fantastic Four to take drastic measures to stop him.
Silver Surfer’s arc is expected to follow her classic comic trajectory—starting as Galactus’ loyal herald before realizing the moral weight of her actions and turning against him. This iteration, played by Julia Garner, adds an intriguing twist to the character, marking a departure from the previous male portrayals.
Who is John Malkovich Playing?
The teaser also gives a glimpse of John Malkovich in a mysterious role, sparking debate among fans. Rumors suggest he could be portraying Ivan Kragoff, also known as the Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains superpowers alongside his team of super-intelligent apes. Another possibility is Mole Man, a classic Fantastic Four villain who commands subterranean creatures. Whether he’s an early obstacle for the team or plays a larger role in the story remains to be seen.
FIRST LOOK at John Malkovich as Red Ghost in ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ trailer! pic.twitter.com/uuhbhjRAfi
— Mullti-Fandom Hype (@MulltiFanHype) February 4, 2025
Mole Man right?
— Comic Book History (@Comicbookhis) February 4, 2025
The Fantastic Four’s New Look
One of the most striking elements of First Steps is its commitment to a distinctive aesthetic. The team’s blue-and-white suits reflect a more practical, space-exploration-inspired design, reminiscent of John Byrne’s 1980s Fantastic Four comics. This signals a departure from previous film adaptations, emphasizing their roles as adventurers and scientists rather than traditional superheroes.
Additionally, the film’s marketing has heavily featured the Future Foundation, a concept from the comics where Reed Richards mentors the next generation of super-geniuses. This raises the question of whether we’ll see young Franklin and Valeria Richards, Reed and Sue’s children, making their MCU debuts.
The Countdown Begins
With The Fantastic Four: First Steps arriving in theaters on July 25, 2025, Marvel is poised to finally deliver the definitive Fantastic Four film fans have been waiting for. Between its ambitious story, compelling cast, and visually stunning retro-futuristic world, the film is shaping up to be a game-changer for the MCU. As we await further reveals, one thing is certain—the First Family of Marvel is ready to make their mark like never before.
