Marvel's 2025 slate is packed, but The Fantastic Four: First Steps reigns supreme. This Phase 6 MCU opener introduces Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and the Fantastic Four, promising a long-awaited, truly great adaptation.
The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and first glimpses of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, a burning question remains: where's Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer Stills
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Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom: A Mystery
Last year's San Diego Comic-Con stunned fans with the announcement of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in The Avengers: Doomsday. The connection between Doom and Iron Man in the comics makes this casting choice intriguing and unexpected. Fans eagerly await Doom's role in setting up the next Avengers-level threat.
Marvel remains tight-lipped. The teaser offers no clear indication of Doom's presence, highlighting First Steps' unique approach. Unlike previous iterations where Doom was a central villain (Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, Toby Kebbell in 2015), this film prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.
First Steps must play a role in establishing Doom, given his Fantastic Four ties and the film's proximity to Avengers: Doomsday. The key question is Doom's origin. He's unlikely to be from Earth-616, but is he from the First Steps universe? An alternate Tony Stark timeline? Or another reality entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would clarify his role and motives. Regardless, Doom won't be the central antagonist; the Fantastic Four face a much larger threat.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser clearly establishes Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds (voiced by Ralph Ineson), as the primary antagonist. Inspired by the classic "Galactus Trilogy," the film depicts the established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge. The extent of their efforts to save Earth remains to be seen, including the potential use of the Ultimate Nullifier and its connection to the Multiverse Saga.
This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer's depiction; he's a humanoid figure, not just a force of nature, reflecting Ineson's casting. While Galactus is shown, his herald, Julia Garner's Silver Surfer, is absent from the teaser. Expect a similar character arc to Laurence Fishburne's portrayal in 2007, starting as Galactus' herald before rebelling.
John Malkovich's Role: Speculation
Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character adds another layer of intrigue. Rumors suggest he plays Ivan Kragoff (Red Ghost), aligning with his past roles. However, the extent of his connection to the Super-Apes remains uncertain. Alternatively, he could be Mole Man, another iconic villain. Either way, he's likely a secondary antagonist. The teaser also features Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser, whose roles remain undisclosed.
The Fantastic Four Unveiled
The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn's Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach's Ben Grimm, along with H.E.R.B.I.E. The film emphasizes their family dynamic, exploring Ben's struggle and Reed's guilt.
The Fantastic Four are established heroes, not just origin stories. However, flashbacks to their origins and Ben's pre-Thing days are included. Their costumes differ from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic, reminiscent of John Byrne's 1980s comics.
The Future Foundation's prominence in marketing suggests the appearance of younger heroes, possibly including Franklin Richards, whose powers might be linked to Galactus' attack.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters July 25, 2025.
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