Marvel's 2025: A Deep Dive into The Fantastic Four: First Steps Trailer
2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel, and The Fantastic Four: First Steps stands as the highly anticipated launch of Phase 6. This film introduces Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and the Fantastic Four to the MCU, promising a fresh take on this classic team. The recently released teaser trailer offers intriguing glimpses of the main cast, villains like Ralph Ineson's Galactus, and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the burning question on many fans' minds remains: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
First Steps Trailer: A Visual Breakdown
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The Elusive Doctor Doom
Last year's San Diego Comic-Con surprised fans with the announcement of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. While the comic book history between Doom and Iron Man is rich, this casting choice was unexpected. The First Steps teaser, however, offers no clear indication of Doom's involvement. This film seems to deviate from previous Fantastic Four adaptations, which prominently featured Doctor Doom as the main antagonist (Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, Toby Kebbell in 2015). This time, the focus shifts to Galactus and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.
While First Steps likely plays a role in establishing Doom as the next major Avengers threat before Avengers: Doomsday (May 2026), his exact origin remains a mystery. Is he from Earth-616? Is this a drastically altered Tony Stark reality? Or does he originate from another universe entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would provide crucial context.
Regardless, Doom won't be the central villain in First Steps. The Fantastic Four face a far greater, literal threat.
The Fantastic Four Confront Galactus
The trailer highlights Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson (Game of Thrones). This classic Marvel character, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, debuted in 1966. First Steps appears to draw inspiration from the "Galactus Trilogy," depicting the established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge.
The film explores the lengths Reed Richards and his family will go to save Earth. Will the Ultimate Nullifier appear, connecting to the Multiverse Saga? This adaptation presents a more character-driven Galactus, unlike the depiction in Rise of the Silver Surfer.
While Galactus is shown, his herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. Expect a similar character arc to Laurence Fishburne's portrayal in 2007, with Silver Surfer initially serving Galactus before rebelling.
Unmasking John Malkovich's Character
Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character adds another layer of intrigue. Rumors suggest he may portray Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man, both iconic Fantastic Four villains. His appearance suggests a possible connection to Mole Man, given the character's subterranean lifestyle. Regardless, he likely serves as a secondary antagonist. The roles of Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser remain unconfirmed.
The Fantastic Four: A Family Affair
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 their robot, H.E.R.B.I.E. The film emphasizes their familial bond, highlighting Ben's struggles and Reed's guilt.
The Fantastic Four are established heroes, though flashbacks to their origin are hinted at. The costumes differ significantly from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic. The Future Foundation's prominence in marketing suggests the possibility of younger heroes, potentially including Franklin Richards, whose powers might be connected to Galactus's attack.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps arrives in theaters on July 25, 2025. Will Doctor Doom appear? Vote in our poll and share your theories!
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