2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel, culminating in the highly anticipated Fantastic Four: First Steps. This Phase 6 MCU launch introduces Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and the Fantastic Four, promising a long-awaited, top-tier adaptation.
The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the team and first glimpses of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the absence of Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom is the burning question.
Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills
20 Images
Doctor Doom's Whereabouts?
Marvel's San Diego Comic-Con announcement of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday was a surprising revelation, leaving fans curious about his role in First Steps. The teaser offers no direct clues. Unlike previous adaptations where Doom was a central villain (Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, Toby Kebbell in 2015), First Steps prioritizes Galactus and Silver Surfer.
While First Steps likely plays a role in establishing Doom – given his connection to the Fantastic Four and the film's proximity to Avengers: Doomsday – his origin and connection to the main MCU timeline remain unclear. Is he from Earth-616? An alternate reality where Tony Stark's life took a darker path? Or a different universe entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would be significant.
Regardless, Doom won't be the central antagonist. The Fantastic Four face a much larger threat.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser highlights Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson. Drawing inspiration from the classic "Galactus Trilogy," the film depicts an established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge. The extent of their efforts to save Earth, potentially involving the Ultimate Nullifier, remains to be seen. This Galactus is a more character-driven portrayal than previous iterations.
Julia Garner's Silver Surfer, a gender-swapped version, is also hinted at. Her arc likely mirrors the original, starting as Galactus' herald before rebelling.
John Malkovich's Role
Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character is a mystery. Speculation centers on Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man. His appearance suggests a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four early in the film.
The roles of Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser remain unconfirmed, adding to the intrigue.
Introducing the Fantastic Four
The teaser 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, highlighting their familial bond. The film appears to focus on Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt.
The costumes are a departure from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic. The Future Foundation's presence, hinted at in marketing materials, suggests the possibility of younger heroes, potentially including Franklin Richards.
Fantastic Four: First Steps arrives July 25, 2025. The mystery of Doctor Doom's involvement and the unfolding narrative promise a thrilling cinematic experience.
AnswerSee Results
