The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a cinematic juggernaut since Iron Man kicked things off in 2008. However, recent years have seen fans critique the franchise for leaning heavily on CGI-heavy environments and formulaic storytelling. Enter The Fantastic Four: First Steps, set to release on July 25, 2025, which is already generating buzz for breaking the MCU mold in bold, exciting ways. Directed by Matt Shakman and starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Marvel’s First Family, this film promises to redefine the MCU with its unique approach. Here’s why Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to stand out.
A Retro-Futuristic Setting That Feels Fresh
Unlike most MCU films anchored in the present-day Earth-616 timeline, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set in a vibrant, retro-futuristic 1960s-inspired parallel universe. This stylistic choice, rooted in the classic Stan Lee and Jack Kirby comics, offers a visually distinct backdrop that sets it apart from the MCU’s typical modern aesthetic. The film’s world is described as a blend of nostalgic charm and advanced technology, with elements like the Fantasti-Car and a practical H.E.R.B.I.E. robot adding a unique flavor.
This alternate reality also ties into the MCU’s Multiverse Saga, positioning First Steps as a pivotal entry in Phase 6. By placing the Fantastic Four in a separate universe before their inevitable crossover into the main MCU timeline (as hinted in Thunderbolts’ post-credits scene), Marvel is taking a bold narrative risk, exploring new storytelling possibilities that avoid the repetitive “Earth-based hero origin” formula.
A Return to Practical Effects
One of the most common criticisms of recent MCU films is their overreliance on green screen and CGI-heavy environments, which can make settings feel artificial. Director Matt Shakman, known for his work on WandaVision, is flipping the script by prioritizing practical effects and real sets. In an interview, Shakman revealed, “We’re trying to go on location as much as we can. We’re building real sets. We’re depending less and less on blue screen, green screen and making things. We have a real Herbie. We have an incredibly beautiful lab set here. We’ve got a real Fantastic Car.”
This commitment to tangible sets and props, like a physical Fantasti-Car and a practical H.E.R.B.I.E., aims to ground the film’s fantastical elements in a way that feels authentic and immersive. By reducing CGI dependency, First Steps is addressing fan complaints head-on, offering a tactile, lived-in world that harkens back to the MCU’s earlier, more grounded successes.
A Comic-Accurate Galactus and Cosmic Stakes
Previous Fantastic Four adaptations, particularly 2007’s Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, were criticized for their depiction of Galactus as a nebulous cloud rather than the towering, humanoid planet-eater from the comics. First Steps corrects this by introducing a comic-accurate Galactus, voiced by Ralph Ineson, as a colossal cosmic threat. The final trailer showcases Galactus looming over Earth, emphasizing the high stakes for Marvel’s First Family as they face their most daunting challenge yet.
The inclusion of Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal, a reimagined Silver Surfer, further elevates the cosmic narrative. This version of the Silver Surfer is described as a “different” take, adding intrigue to how the character will serve as Galactus’ herald. The film also hints at Franklin Richards, Reed and Sue’s son, playing a pivotal role, with his cosmic powers potentially serving as the key to the team’s crossover into the main MCU timeline for Avengers: Doomsday. This focus on cosmic, multiversal stakes sets First Steps apart from the more Earth-bound MCU entries, aligning it with the ambitious scope of films like Spider-Man: No Way Home and Deadpool & Wolverine.
A Stellar Cast and New Character Dynamics
The casting of The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a major draw, blending established stars with fresh faces. Pedro Pascal stars as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, bringing his signature charisma and paternal gravitas, while Vanessa Kirby plays Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, who is pregnant in this iteration—a first for the franchise. Joseph Quinn’s Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm/The Thing round out the core team, with the latter sporting a rock beard in a nod to comic book flair.
The film introduces new dynamics, such as the familial focus on Reed and Sue’s relationship and their son Franklin, which adds emotional depth to the superhero spectacle. Supporting characters like Paul Walter Hauser’s Mole Man and John Malkovich’s Red Ghost, alongside the cosmic threat of Galactus, create a rich tapestry of villains and allies that feel both nostalgic and innovative. This blend of personal stakes and larger-than-life threats sets First Steps apart from the MCU’s more formulaic team-up films.
Setting the Stage for Phase 6 and Beyond
As the first film in Phase 6, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is positioned as a cornerstone of the MCU’s future. Producer Tim Lewis has teased that the movie will set up Avengers: Doomsday (releasing December 2026), with the Fantastic Four’s alternate universe playing a key role in how the multiverse converges. Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president, emphasized the importance of Marvel’s First Family, stating, “No four characters are more important for the history of Marvel. I really wanted to do them justice.”
The film’s narrative is expected to bridge into Avengers: Doomsday, where the Fantastic Four will join forces with characters like Captain America, Thor, and the X-Men to face Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom. This interconnected storytelling, combined with the film’s shorter runtime of 115 minutes (making it the shortest MCU film of 2025), suggests a focused, impactful story that avoids the bloat of some recent MCU entries. Marvel’s confidence in the project is evident, with reports indicating a sequel is already in development for a potential 2028 release.
Addressing Fan Expectations and Controversies
While First Steps is generating excitement, it hasn’t been without scrutiny. Pedro Pascal’s casting as Reed Richards sparked debate, with some fans questioning his fit for the role due to his age or appearance. However, Pascal has addressed these concerns, noting support from co-star Robert Downey Jr. and emphasizing that his performance will focus on capturing Reed’s essence as a brilliant, paternal leader. The film’s commitment to practical effects, a comic-accurate Galactus, and a fresh take on the Fantastic Four’s legacy suggests Marvel is listening to fans who have longed for a faithful adaptation.
Why It Matters
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is breaking the MCU mold by combining a retro-futuristic aesthetic, practical effects, a comic-accurate villain, and a pivotal role in the Multiverse Saga. Its focus on a parallel universe, shorter runtime, and deep ties to Avengers: Doomsday signal a bold new direction for the MCU. With a stellar cast, a director committed to authenticity, and a story that balances nostalgia with innovation, this film is poised to be a game-changer for Marvel Studios.
As Paul Walter Hauser, who plays Mole Man, declared, “I believe we are the Marvel movie of the year.” Fans are dissecting every frame of the final trailer, and the excitement is palpable. Whether it’s the looming threat of Galactus, the retro charm of the 1960s, or the promise of a fresh start for Marvel’s First Family, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to clobber expectations when it hits theaters on July 25, 2025.
