Four Months to Go: What We Know About ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’

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In just four months, Marvel enthusiasts are in for a significant event, and I’m thrilled about it! There seems to be something extraordinary in the works with the impending premiere of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Footsteps,’ a film that promises to reintroduce Marvel’s founding family on the silver screen.

I’ve been closely monitoring this project since its inception, and it’s thrilling to watch it take shape. This isn’t your average superhero movie; instead, it marks the beginning of Phase Six in the Marvel Cinematic Universe under the direction of Matt Shakman, who brought us ‘WandaVision.’ Already generating buzz with its talented cast and a storyline that hints at an intriguing twist, here’s what we currently know about ‘The Fantastic Four: First Footsteps.’

The Cast Bringing the Team to Life

In this upcoming film, some highly recognized actors have been cast to portray the Fantastic Four, which I’m genuinely looking forward to. Pedro Pascal assumes the role of Reed Richards, better known as Mister Fantastic – the elastic-powered intellect who heads the group. Next up is Vanessa Kirby, who plays Sue Storm, also known as the Invisible Woman, Reed’s spouse with the ability to become invisible or generate force fields. Joseph Quinn embodies Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, Sue’s flamboyant brother capable of flight and setting things ablaze, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach brings Ben Grimm to life, famously known as The Thing, the rock-skinned powerhouse of the team.

As a seasoned movie critic, I find myself eagerly anticipating the upcoming film, for it boasts an impressive ensemble of talented actors who’ve graced our screens with their captivating performances.

Pascal, a familiar face from ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Last of Us,’ promises to deliver another stellar act. Kirby, renowned for his spellbinding work on ‘The Crown’ and the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series, is sure to leave an indelible mark. Quinn, who captivated viewers in ‘Stranger Things,’ and Moss-Bachrach, the Emmy-winning star of ‘The Bear,’ complete this formidable quartet.

While they are stepping into roles once played by others—akin to Chris Evans’ portrayal of Johnny in the 2005 version—their interpretations promise a fresh and exciting take on these characters, breathing new life into the narrative.

Beyond the main cast, there’s even more to look forward to! The renowned actor Ralph Ineson is set to embody the colossal cosmic devourer Galactus, while Julia Garner will portray Shalla-Bal, a take on the Silver Surfer. Additionally, we have Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, and Natasha Lyonne joining us, but details about their roles are yet to be disclosed. This lineup is brimming with big-name talent and some intriguing secrets!

A Retro Twist on the Story

In this tale, we’re transported not to the contemporary Marvel universe as you might expect, but rather into a 1960s-inspired, futuristic setting with a retro flair. The narrative centers around Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben as they confront their most daunting challenge to date: battling Galactus, an ominous cosmic entity that consumes planets, and his enigmatic emissary, the Silver Surfer. This story also carries a deeply personal touch, amplifying the sense of urgency and tension.

In this story, I’m finding it quite intriguing how they blend personal family turmoil with extraordinary heroics. The group is juggling their superhero duties with maintaining their familial ties, which has always been a cornerstone of the Fantastic Four in the comics. Unlike previous adaptations, this film isn’t delving into their origin story—how they gained their powers from cosmic rays during space travel. Instead, Marvel’s Kevin Feige is opting to bypass that aspect as many of us are already familiar with it, focusing instead on a fresh adventure tailored for this unique 1960s universe.

In this scenario, it appears that this story may not be part of the primary Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline, but rather an alternate reality that could link to the multiverse at some point. Although we’ve caught glimpses of this team earlier on, such as John Krasinski’s Reed in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’, this is their official introduction. With filming nearing completion, as Joseph Quinn shared with Variety, it’s evident that they are putting a great deal of effort into making this world feel distinctive and inhabited.

What’s Next for Marvel’s First Family

This film isn’t just a standalone production—it marks the beginning of a larger saga. The release of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ initiates Phase Six within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), paving the way for future installments such as ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ in 2026 and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ in 2027. The primary cast is set to reappear in these upcoming films, indicating a team that will persist over time. There are even whispers of Robert Downey Jr. making an appearance as Doctor Doom, possibly in a post-credit scene, which could add a fascinating twist to the storyline.

As I pen this review, I’m thrilled to share my insights on an upcoming production that has me buzzing with anticipation – Marvel’s Fantastic Four reboot. Stepping into the director’s chair is the talented Matt Shakman, ably supported by a script-crafting team including Josh Friedman and Eric Pearson. Filming commenced in the heart of July 2024 within the verdant landscapes of the United Kingdom. With mere months left before its completion, the team is racing towards the finish line, meticulously piecing together this ambitious project.

The retro aesthetic isn’t merely a stylistic choice; it’s a nod to the team’s 1961 debut, infused with a contemporary twist. Expect to see flying Fantasticars and the robot H.E.R.B.I.E., faithful renditions straight from the comics, gracing our screens. This blend of nostalgia and innovation promises a unique viewing experience that will undoubtedly leave audiences spellbound.

Counting down for us is the day, July 25, 2025, when it’ll hit theaters. I have high hopes that it’ll be exceptional, combining the timeless Marvel allure with the high-octane action we adore. Whether you’ve been a fan of the Fantastic Four since their comic book era or are just joining in, this promises to be an exciting journey you won’t want to miss.

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2025-03-25 13:44