The Marvel Cinematic Universe is about to welcome its most iconic team yet. Fantastic Four: First Steps arrives in theaters July 25, 2025, and brings Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm into the MCU for the very first time.
Set in a vibrant, 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world, the movie introduces audiences to Marvel’s First Family with style, speed, and heart. According to actor Ebon Moss-Bachrach, “The origin of the Fantastic Four is delivered up in the first five minutes of the movie. It brings everyone up to speed.”
Pedro Pascal stars as the stretchy scientist Mister Fantastic. Meanwhile, Vanessa Kirby takes on the role of the Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn ignites as the Human Torch, and Moss-Bachrach transforms into The Thing. The film is directed by Matt Shakman, who drew heavy inspiration from legendary comic creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
“We thought about what the Fantastic Four means to us and tried to tell a new story,” says Shakman. “They are the source of optimism and inspiration for their entire world.”
A Future We Were Promised
One of the film’s most striking features is its bold, retro-futuristic design. Production designer Kasra Farahani brought to life a world influenced by mid-century pulp artwork, classic Kirby visuals, and the optimistic Americana of the 1950s and ’60s.
Farahani explains, “The Fantastic Four live in the delivery of the promise of that art—the future we never really got.” Unlike his work on Loki, which leaned dystopian, this film bursts with color and imagination.
A Cosmic Threat Emerges
Naturally, every superhero team needs a formidable foe—and the Fantastic Four will face none other than Galactus. Shakman describes Galactus as “essentially a god.” He is ancient, nearly unstoppable, and consumes entire planets. His arrival, heralded by the Silver Surfer, forces the team to respond in the only way they know how: together.
“This is a story about love and optimism,” says Shakman. “That’s something I think we all need.”
Fantastic Four: First Steps is more than just a reboot. It’s a reimagining steeped in history, heart, and hope for the future.
For more behind-the-scenes stories and interviews with the cast and crew, check out the original article on D23.
