The highly anticipated Fantastic Four: First Steps kicks off Phase 6 of the MCU, introducing Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and his family. The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and first glimpses of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the absence of Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom is the burning question on many fans' minds.
The trailer, while showcasing the Fantastic Four, notably downplays Doom, unlike previous iterations. This suggests a different approach, prioritizing Galactus and Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner). The film's placement before Avengers: Doomsday implies Doom's eventual introduction, but his origin and connection to the main storyline remain unclear. Is he from the same universe as the Fantastic Four, or an alternate reality? His appearance, potentially a post-credits scene, is highly anticipated.
The trailer prominently features Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, drawing inspiration from the classic "Galactus Trilogy." Ineson's portrayal of Galactus promises a more character-driven approach than previous cinematic iterations. The inclusion of Silver Surfer, a gender-swapped version, suggests a similar character arc to previous adaptations.
John Malkovich's role remains a mystery, with speculation pointing towards either Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man. His character's appearance hints at a secondary villain, adding to the Fantastic Four's established rogues' gallery.
The teaser highlights the Fantastic Four's familial dynamic, focusing on Ben Grimm's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt. The film depicts the team as established heroes, though flashbacks to their origin are hinted at. The costumes are a departure from previous films, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic. The Future Foundation, a key element in the comics, is also heavily implied, raising the possibility of younger heroes appearing.
The film's release on July 25, 2025, leaves fans eagerly awaiting answers regarding Doctor Doom's role and the overall narrative. A poll included in the article gauges fan predictions on whether Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom will appear in the film.
