2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year for Marvel across all platforms, but none more so than with the highly anticipated release of *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. This film not only marks the beginning of Phase 6 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, alongside his superhero family. Fans are hopeful that this will be the definitive Fantastic Four movie they've been waiting for.
The newly released teaser trailer for First Steps has set high expectations. It offers an in-depth look at the main quartet and introduces key antagonists, including Ralph Ineson as Galactus and John Malkovich in a mysterious role. However, the burning question for many remains—where is Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's delve into what we know and what we don't from this exciting new trailer.
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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 has been renamed The Avengers: Doomsday and that Robert Downey, Jr. would portray Doctor Doom. Given the rich history between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, this was an unexpected yet exciting development. Fans are eager to understand how The Fantastic Four: First Steps will lay the groundwork for Doom's role as the next major Avengers-level threat.
Marvel Studios is keeping details under wraps, and the teaser trailer doesn't directly hint at Doom's presence. Instead, it emphasizes a fresh approach to the Fantastic Four story, diverging from past iterations. Unlike Julian McMahon's Doom in the 2005 and 2007 films or Toby Kebbell's in the 2015 reboot, this movie focuses more on Galactus, Silver Surfer, and introduces John Malkovich's character.
Given that Doctor Doom is a primary Fantastic Four villain, it's reasonable to assume First Steps will contribute to his narrative arc. As one of the last MCU movies before Avengers: Doomsday in May 2026, it must tease the upcoming villain. The big question is from which universe Downey's Doom originates. He's not from Earth-616, so is he from the same universe as The Fantastic Four: First Steps? Does his backstory involve a darker version of Tony Stark's life, or is he from an entirely different world? Even a brief appearance in a post-credits scene could shed light on his character and his motives against the MCU's Avengers.
While Doom's role in First Steps remains uncertain, whether as a supporting villain or a cameo, he won't be the main focus. The Fantastic Four have bigger fish to fry—literally.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus -------------------------------The teaser trailer clearly positions 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, first appearing in 1966's Fantastic Four #48. This issue kicked off the "Galactus Trilogy," where Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrive to consume Earth, forcing the Fantastic Four into a desperate battle.
Over time, Marvel has expanded Galactus' backstory. Originally a mortal named Galan of Taa, he survived the pre-Big Bang universe and merged with the Sentience of the Universe to become Galactus. He now roams the cosmos, consuming life-rich planets to satisfy his cosmic hunger.
Galactus serves a vital role in the Marvel Universe's cycle of death and rebirth, though this is little consolation to those on planets he targets. First Steps draws inspiration from the Galactus Trilogy, portraying a well-established Fantastic Four facing their greatest challenge yet.
The film will explore the lengths to which Reed and his family will go to protect Earth. In the comics, Reed uses the Ultimate Nullifier against Galactus, a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. Will this powerful device feature in the film, and how might it tie into the Multiverse Saga and the concept of Incursions?
Unlike the 2007 film's depiction of Galactus as a cloud, First Steps presents him in humanoid form, towering over the Statue of Liberty. This choice suggests a more nuanced, character-driven portrayal, thanks to Ineson's casting.
While we see glimpses of Galactus, Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is absent from the teaser. In the comics, Silver Surfer scouts planets for Galactus but eventually rebels after sympathizing with Earth. This gender-swapped version is expected to follow a similar arc, influenced by memories of her life on Zenn-La.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing? ------------------------------While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main threats, John Malkovich's brief appearance in the teaser hints at another antagonist. Rumors suggest he might be playing Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four but with a team of super-powered apes. Given Malkovich's history with Russian roles, this casting fits.
Alternatively, he could be Mole Man, another iconic FF villain rumored to appear. Known for his subterranean kingdom and ambition to conquer the surface world, Malkovich's character looks like he's spent time underground.
Malkovich's role is likely that of a secondary villain, confronting the Fantastic Four early in the film. The team's established status suggests they already have a rogues' gallery. Other unconfirmed cast members include Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Houser, whose roles are yet to be revealed.
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. We also see their robot assistant, H.E.R.B.I.E.
The focus on family dynamics is clear, highlighting the love and conflicts within the team. The film will likely delve into Ben's struggle with his monstrous form and Reed's guilt over causing it.
First Steps seems to be set in a time when the Fantastic Four are already well-known celebrities, not an origin story like previous films. However, flashbacks to their origins are included, suggesting some exploration of their past.
The new costumes, featuring a blue and white color scheme reminiscent of John Byrne's '80s comics, reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes. The suits are practical and character-specific.
Marketing for the film emphasizes the Future Foundation, a comic book organization founded by Reed to nurture young super-geniuses. This raises questions about potential appearances by younger heroes, including Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The title "First Steps" hints at themes of parenthood and raising the next generation.
Young Franklin Richards might play a role in the film, and his immense power could explain Galactus' interest in Earth. We'll discover more when The Fantastic Four: First Steps premieres on July 25, 2025.
For more on Marvel's future, explore what to expect in 2025 and see every Marvel movie and series in development.
