2025 marks a monumental year for Marvel across various media, but none more so than with the highly anticipated release of *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. This film not only launches Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, alongside his superhero family. Fans have been eagerly awaiting a truly exceptional Fantastic Four movie, and it seems that wait may soon be over.
The newly released teaser trailer for *First Steps* offers an exciting glimpse into the world of the main foursome and introduces us to 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 the trailer reveals and what it leaves us wondering about.
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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. This unexpected casting choice, given the rich history between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, has left fans curious about how *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* will set the stage for Doom's emergence as a major Avengers-level threat.
Marvel Studios is keeping details under wraps, and the teaser trailer offers no clear hints of Doom's presence. Instead, it highlights a fresh approach, focusing on Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic role. Unlike previous Fantastic Four films where Julian McMahon and Toby Kebbell played significant roles as Doom, this movie seems to be downplaying his presence.
Given Doom's integral connection to the Fantastic Four, it's reasonable to assume that *First Steps* will play a role in establishing his character. As one of the last MCU movies before *Avengers: Doomsday* in May 2026, it's crucial for setting up the next big villain. The key question is from which universe Downey's Doom originates. Is he from the same universe as *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*, or does he come from a different, darker reality? Even a brief appearance in a post-credits scene could provide vital context about 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, the Fantastic Four have more immediate and colossal challenges to face.
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 iconic "Galactus Trilogy," where Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrive to consume Earth, forcing the Fantastic Four into a desperate battle to save their planet.
Galactus' backstory has been expanded in subsequent Marvel stories, revealing him as Galan of Taa, a mortal who bonded with the Sentience of the Universe to become the cosmic entity we know. His role in the Marvel Universe is more of a necessary cosmic function than that of a traditional supervillain, as he devours worlds to maintain the cycle of death and rebirth.
*First Steps* draws heavily from the Galactus Trilogy, presenting a well-established Fantastic Four facing their greatest challenge yet. The film explores how far Reed Richards and his family will go to protect Earth, possibly involving the Ultimate Nullifier, a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. This could tie into the larger narrative of the Multiverse Saga and the concept of Incursions.
Unlike the 2007 film *Rise of the Silver Surfer*, which depicted Galactus as a cloud-like entity, *First Steps* presents him in a more traditional, humanoid form, towering over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. This approach allows for a deeper character exploration, justifying the casting of Ineson.
While Galactus is prominently featured, his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is notably absent from the teaser. The Silver Surfer, introduced in the same comic as Galactus, traditionally scouts planets for his master to consume. However, upon encountering Earth, she is expected to rebel against Galactus, echoing her character arc from the comics and the 2007 film.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing? ------------------------------While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main threats, the teaser hints at additional antagonists, including a brief shot of John Malkovich. Speculation suggests he might be playing Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four. Alternatively, he could be portraying Mole Man, another iconic FF villain rumored to appear. Malkovich's character appears rugged, hinting at a subterranean connection.
Malkovich's role remains unconfirmed, but he is likely to be a secondary villain, adding to the Fantastic Four's established rogues' gallery. Other actors like Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Houser also have unconfirmed roles, sparking further speculation among fans.
Meet the Fantastic Four -----------------------The teaser primarily focuses on the Fantastic Four themselves, showcasing Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach as Ben Grimm. The film emphasizes the family dynamics and the struggles they face, particularly Ben's battle with his monstrous transformation and Reed's guilt over causing it.
Unlike previous films, *First Steps* does not serve as an origin story but rather portrays the FF as established celebrity heroes. However, the trailer includes flashbacks to their origins, suggesting a nod to their past while focusing on their current adventures. The costumes, inspired by John Byrne's '80s comics, reflect their roles as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes.
Marketing for the film has highlighted the Future Foundation, a concept from the comics where Reed nurtures young super-geniuses. This raises questions about the inclusion of younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The title "First Steps" hints at themes of parenthood and raising the next generation, potentially linking to Galactus' interest in Earth.
*The Fantastic Four: First Steps* is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, promising to deliver a thrilling new chapter in the MCU. Fans are eager to see how the film will address the looming presence of Doctor Doom and the cosmic threat of Galactus.
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