2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel across various media platforms, but none more eagerly awaited than "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." This film not only launches Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also introduces fans to Pedro Pascal's portrayal of Reed Richards and his iconic superhero family. With high hopes, the wait for a truly remarkable Fantastic Four movie may finally be coming to an end.
The recently unveiled teaser trailer for "First Steps" offers a closer look at the main quartet and introduces antagonists 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? Let's delve into what we do and don't see in this exciting new trailer.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills
20 Images
Where Is Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
Marvel made waves at last year's San Diego Comic-Con by announcing that "The Avengers 5" had been renamed "The Avengers: Doomsday" and that Robert Downey, Jr. would be portraying Doctor Doom. This surprising casting choice, given the rich history between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, has left fans curious about how "First Steps" will set the stage for Doom's role as the next major Avengers-level threat.
Marvel Studios is keeping details under wraps, and the teaser offers no direct hints of Doom's involvement. Instead, it highlights a fresh approach for "First Steps," distinct from its predecessors. Previous Fantastic Four films prominently featured Doctor Doom, played by Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, and Toby Kebbell in the 2015 reboot. This time, the focus shifts to Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.
Despite the lack of Doom in the teaser, "First Steps" is expected to play a crucial role in establishing him, given his primary association with the Fantastic Four. As one of the last MCU movies before "Avengers: Doomsday" in May 2026, it's likely that "First Steps" will tease Doom's arrival in some capacity.
A key question that "First Steps" may address is the origin of Downey's Doom. Clearly not from Earth-616, fans are eager to know if Doom comes from the same universe as "First Steps" or from another entirely. Could this be a world where Tony Stark's life took a darker path? Even a post-credits scene could shed light on this character and his intentions toward the MCU's Avengers.
Regardless of Doom's role in "First Steps," whether as a supporting villain or a brief cameo, he won't overshadow the main narrative. The Fantastic Four have more immediate, larger-than-life threats to tackle.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser clearly establishes Galactus, voiced by Ralph Ineson, as the primary antagonist. Known as the Devourer of Worlds, Galactus is a classic Marvel character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. He first appeared in "Fantastic Four #48" in 1966, initiating the "Galactus Trilogy," where he and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrived to consume Earth.
Galactus, once a mortal named Galan of Taa, evolved into a cosmic entity after merging with the Sentience of the Universe. His role is integral to the Marvel Universe's cycle of death and rebirth, though this offers little solace to the worlds he targets.
"First Steps" draws inspiration from the Galactus Trilogy, portraying a well-established Fantastic Four facing their greatest challenge yet. The question arises: what lengths will Reed and his family go to protect Earth? In the comics, Reed used the Ultimate Nullifier against Galactus, a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. Will this powerful artifact appear in the film, possibly tying into the Multiverse Saga and Incursions?
Unlike the 2007 film "Rise of the Silver Surfer," which depicted Galactus as a cloud, "First Steps" presents him in a more traditional, humanoid form. This choice reflects a deeper character development, with Ineson's voice bringing Galactus to life.
While Galactus is prominently featured, Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is absent from the teaser. In the comics, Silver Surfer initially scouts planets for Galactus but eventually rebels after connecting with Earth's inhabitants. Expect a similar arc in "First Steps," despite the gender swap of the character.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing?
While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main villains, John Malkovich's brief appearance in the teaser raises questions about his role. Rumors suggest he might be Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who, after gaining powers, teams up with three apes to form the Super-Apes. Given Malkovich's history with Russian characters, this casting makes sense, though it's unclear how much the film will embrace the character's campy origins.
Another possibility is that Malkovich plays Mole Man, a classic Fantastic Four villain rumored for "First Steps." Known for his subterranean kingdom and ambitions to conquer the surface world, Mole Man's appearance could fit Malkovich's look in the teaser.
Malkovich's role is likely that of a secondary villain, clashing with the Fantastic Four early on. Given the team's established status, it's fitting that they face a roster of familiar foes.
Other actors, such as Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser, also star in the film, with their roles yet to be confirmed. Share your theories about their characters in the comments.
Meet the Fantastic Four
The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach as Ben Grimm, along with their helper robot, H.E.R.B.I.E. The film emphasizes the family dynamics within the team, highlighting Ben's struggle with his monstrous transformation and Reed's guilt over causing it.
Unlike previous films, "First Steps" isn't an origin story but depicts a well-established Fantastic Four as celebrity heroes. However, flashbacks to the team's origins, including pre-Thing Ben Grimm and the accident that gave them their powers, are included.
The costumes in "First Steps" feature a blue and white color scheme, reminiscent of John Byrne's '80s comics, and reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes.
Marvel's marketing has also hinted at the Future Foundation, a group founded by Reed in the comics to mentor young geniuses. This raises questions about whether younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria, will appear. The "First Steps" title suggests themes of parenthood and raising children.
Young Franklin Richards, one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe, might be key to Galactus targeting Earth. We'll discover more when "Fantastic Four: First Steps" premieres on July 25, 2025.
What are your thoughts on Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom appearing in the movie? Share your theories in the comments below.
AnswerSee Results For more on the future of the Marvel Universe, find out what to expect from Marvel in 2025 and see every Marvel movie and series in development.
