Marvel's Fantastic Four: First Steps Reveals Star-Studded Cast and Retro Setting

Marvel Studios has released the first trailer for their highly anticipated film "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," marking the beginning of MCU's Phase 6. The star-studded cast features some of television's most celebrated actors, with Pedro Pascal of "The Last of Us" fame stepping into the role of Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, the team's brilliant leader.

Assembled Cast Brings Star Power to Marvel's First Family

The casting choices reflect Marvel's commitment to bringing together exceptional talent. Vanessa Kirby, fresh from her role in "Napoleon," will portray Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, while "Stranger Things" breakout star Joseph Quinn takes on the role of Johnny Storm/Human Torch. Ebon Moss-Bachrach, known for his work in "The Bear," rounds out the core team as Ben Grimm/The Thing.

First Trailer Reveals Family-Centered Approach

The debut trailer offers glimpses of the team's journey, showing their lives both before and after gaining their extraordinary abilities. A brief appearance by Galactus, portrayed by Ralph Ineson, sets up the film's primary antagonist. The trailer emphasizes the family dynamic at the heart of the story, highlighted by Sue Storm's poignant declaration: "Whatever life throws at us, we face it as a family."

Retro-Futuristic Setting Brings New Vision to MCU

Marvel Studios is taking an innovative approach by setting the film in an alternative version of the 1960s. Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios president, revealed on The Official Marvel Podcast that while the story takes place in New York City, audiences should expect a fresh interpretation of the familiar MCU setting.

Supporting Cast and Creative Team

The film features an impressive supporting cast including Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer, offering a unique take on the character that diverges from the traditional Norrin Radd version. Additional cast members include Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and John Malkovich. Robert Downey Jr. is set to appear as Victor Von Doom, a character poised to play a significant role in future MCU projects.

Behind the camera, "WandaVision" director Matt Shakman leads the project, working from a screenplay by Peter Cameron, Josh Friedman, and Jeff Kaplan. The film's production team includes cinematographer Jess Hall and composer Michael Giacchino.

Future Impact on MCU

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is positioned to lay groundwork for major upcoming MCU projects, including "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars." The film's influence on the broader Marvel universe appears to be substantial, particularly through the introduction of Downey Jr.'s Victor Von Doom character.

Release Information

Audiences can experience "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" in theaters on July 25, 2025.