Marvel Studios is set to redefine the cinematic journey of Marvel’s First Family with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, slated for release on July 25, 2025. Directed by Matt Shakman, this film marks the 37th entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the second reboot of the Fantastic Four franchise. With a stellar cast, a unique retro-futuristic setting, and a bold narrative approach, the film promises to capture the essence of the iconic superhero team while carving a fresh path in the MCU’s Multiverse Saga. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated blockbuster.
Cast: A Star-Studded Ensemble
The film boasts an impressive lineup of talent, bringing fresh faces to the beloved Fantastic Four characters:
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic: Known for The Mandalorian and The Last of Us, Pascal steps into the role of the brilliant scientist with stretchable powers, leading the team with intellect and heart.
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman: The Mission: Impossible and The Crown star portrays the team’s emotional anchor, capable of invisibility and force-field projection. Kirby has hinted at exploring Sue’s role as a mother, adding depth to her character.
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch: Fresh off Stranger Things and Gladiator II, Quinn brings a modern, less womanizing take on the fiery, hot-headed younger brother.
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing: The Andor and The Punisher actor embodies the rock-skinned powerhouse, infusing Ben with emotional complexity and a nod to Marvel legends Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
- Ralph Ineson as Galactus: The Game of Thrones and The Witch actor takes on the cosmic planet-devourer, a towering threat to Earth.
- Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal / Silver Surfer: The Ozark star plays a gender-swapped version of the iconic herald, bringing a fresh dynamic to the cosmic narrative.
- Supporting Cast: John Malkovich, Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles round out the ensemble in undisclosed roles, with rumors suggesting Malkovich might portray the Silver Age villain Ivan Kragoff / Red Ghost. The adorable robot H.E.R.B.I.E. also makes an appearance, adding a playful touch.
This ensemble was carefully chosen not just for individual talent but for their chemistry as a family unit, a key focus for director Matt Shakman.
Budget: A High-Stakes Investment
While exact figures for The Fantastic Four: First Steps remain undisclosed, industry estimates suggest a budget in the range of $200–$250 million, aligning with recent MCU blockbusters like Thunderbolts and Captain America: Brave New World. This accounts for high-profile casting, extensive visual effects (especially for Galactus and the retro-futuristic world), practical sets like the Fantasticar, and filming across Pinewood Studios in England and locations in Spain. The investment reflects Marvel’s commitment to making the Fantastic Four a cornerstone of Phase Six, following the acquisition of 20th Century Fox’s film rights in 2019.
Plot: A Cosmic Family Adventure
Set in a vibrant, 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world, The Fantastic Four: First Steps sidesteps the team’s origin story, assuming audiences are familiar with their cosmic-ray-induced powers from previous films. The story follows Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm as they navigate their roles as heroes and family members. Their greatest challenge comes in the form of Galactus, a cosmic entity intent on devouring Earth, aided by his herald, Shalla-Bal / Silver Surfer. The synopsis teases a “very personal” conflict, suggesting emotional stakes tied to the team’s familial bond, possibly involving Sue’s motherhood or Shalla-Bal’s tragic backstory as the empress of Zenn-La, who may have bargained with Galactus to save her homeworld.
The film draws inspiration from Jonathan Hickman’s 2009–2011 comic run, incorporating elements like the Future Foundation, a philanthropic organization led by Reed. Director Matt Shakman, influenced by Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey and designer Syd Mead’s futuristic aesthetics, crafts a visually distinct world that feels like an alternate 1960s Manhattan, complete with the Fantasticar and practical sets like H.E.R.B.I.E. The tone blends high-stakes sci-fi adventure with playful collaboration, informed by Shakman’s work on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
Connection to the MCU and Beyond
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is the first film in the MCU’s Phase Six, kicking off a new chapter after Thunderbolts (May 2, 2025) concludes Phase Five. Set in an alternate universe, not Earth-616 (the main MCU continuity), the film explains why the Fantastic Four haven’t appeared in earlier MCU events like the Infinity Saga. This alternate reality, with its retro-futuristic 1960s aesthetic, sets the stage for the team’s eventual integration into the main MCU, likely in Avengers: Doomsday (2026), where the cast is confirmed to appear. The presence of Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., in Avengers: Doomsday hints at a looming confrontation, though director Shakman has clarified Doom won’t appear in First Steps.
The film also ties into the Multiverse Saga. John Krasinski’s cameo as an Earth-838 Reed Richards in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) was a fan-service nod, but Pedro Pascal’s Reed is a distinct version, anchoring this new universe. The inclusion of Shalla-Bal as the Silver Surfer suggests a narrative arc where she might turn against Galactus, aligning with the Fantastic Four, a common thread in the comics. This could set up future cosmic storylines involving characters like the Watcher or the Celestials.
Why It Matters
After three underwhelming live-action attempts (the unreleased 1994 film, the 2005–2007 series, and the 2015 reboot), The Fantastic Four: First Steps aims to restore the team’s legacy as Marvel’s First Family. With a focus on family dynamics, a bold retro-futuristic aesthetic, and a cosmic threat that feels both epic and personal, the film is poised to be a standout in the MCU. Kevin Feige has emphasized its role as a “big pillar” for the MCU’s future, promising a faithful yet innovative take on the characters who sparked the Marvel Age of Comics.
Get ready to join Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben as they take their first steps into the MCU. Tickets are available now for the July 25, 2025, theatrical release.