Marvel Studios just released the first trailer for Fantastic 4 First Steps. The MCU is transported back to the 1960s. Matt Shakman collaborated with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center for the teaser reveal, honoring the team’s astronaut roots. Here’s what MCU’s Phase 6 has in store for the return of the Fantastic 4.
Fantastic 4 First Steps’ Trailer Summary
Shakman and his team have brought a refreshing take to the Marvel heroes’ revival. Fantastic 4 First Steps brings fans to retro-futuristic America. Marvel has stated they wanted to show these characters as Marvel’s first family. Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) is shown to organize family dinners every Sunday in their private headquarters. He treats Ben Grimm (The Thing) as his brother, even after he becomes a rock creature. Sue Storm (Invisible Woman) is his partner and loves her dearly. And they both look out for her brother, Johnny (The Flaming Torch).
Reed and Sue acknowledged that their rocket launch caused mutations in their bodies. However, they do not regret using their powers to protect civilians. Viewers do get a glimpse of Ben by watching a past interview as called himself ‘handsome’. It’s such a cool detail as for many generations, The Thing always believed he was ugly. As for Johnny, he’s a free-spirit, using flight to travel and relieve his anxiety. While we do not see him in the trailer, Marvel revealed that Galactus is the film’s villain.
The Cast of MCU’s Fantastic 4
Fantastic 4 First Steps shows confidence in their casting. Their acting gives excitement at first glance based on their character portrayal. Here are the stars beginning their MCU journey:
- Pedro Pascal: He’s recognized for his recent lead in HBO Max’s The Last of Us, Joel Miller. Pascal’s connection to Disney is for playing The Mandalorian.
- Vanessa Kirby: Her last action movie role was in Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible Fallout. Kirby played Alanna Mistopolis (The White Widow).
- Joseph Quinn: He starred in Russell Crowe’s Gladiator II as Emperor Geta. It’s funny seeing Johnny Storm go from villain to hero after a few months.
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach: The Thing will be his second Marvel character role. Moss-Bachrach portrayed Micro in The Punisher’s 2017 mini-series.
- Ralph Inneson: He’s a fantastic pick for Galactus. His voice acting in The Legend of Vox Machina will have the planet eater send fear. Inneson also starred in Nosferatu (2024).
First Impressions of F4FS
Shakman definitely has done his homework to bring Fantastic 4 First Steps to life. Compared to the original film duology by 20th Century Fox, these heroes were set in the modern day. The 1960s gives the film a charming and vibrant setting. Mr. Fantastic’s new Fansti-Car and apartment is brought into the mix for the retro-futuristic theme.
The cinematography looks incredible including visual effects on Ben and Johnny. What brought this new film together is staying true to their astronaut origins combined with the events of the Great Space Race. Marvel is kicking off 2025 on a great start. We cannot wait to see the film on July 25th!
