MCU's Fantastic Four Debut: Comprehensive Guide to the Upcoming Marvel Film
In the world of Marvel, the latest addition to the cinematic universe is The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This exciting new film, set in a retrofuturistic 1960s setting four years after the team was exposed to cosmic rays, has already made waves, raking in over $216 million worldwide as of July 29.
The star-studded cast includes Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Sarah Niles takes on the role of Lynne Nichols, while Mark Gatiss plays Ted Gilbert. Natasha Lyonne appears as Rachel Rozman, and Joseph Quinn brings the character of Johnny Storm/Human Torch to life.
The villains in The Fantastic Four: First Steps are as diverse and formidable as the heroes themselves. Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. in Avengers: Doomsday, makes a brief yet threatening appearance in the post-credits scene. The film's major antagonists, however, are Silver Surfer, Red Ghost and his Super-Apes, and Mole Man.
Silver Surfer, with his impressive speed and power, is a significant threat, heralding the planet's impending doom by Galactus. Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist villain, was originally planned to be played by John Malkovich, but his role was cut from the final film. However, one of the Super-Apes, named Peotr, an orangutan, remains in the movie. Mole Man, another well-known Fantastic Four villain, appears in a less threatening role without his monstrous minions.
Diablo, an ancient Spanish alchemist villain, is mentioned by name and linked to the Fantastic Four comics, though his role in the film appears limited or referenced. Other minor villains, such as The Puppet Master and The Mad Thinker, are referenced or seen in Easter eggs.
The plot revolves around Susan (Vanessa Kirby) becoming pregnant with Reed's child, Franklin, and the Fantastic Four preparing for his birth. Galactus demands that the team give up baby Franklin, who has dormant powers that can satisfy his endless hunger, or let the Earth be destroyed.
Matt Shakman directs this action-packed film, which received an 87% rating from 335 critics and a 93% rating from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. The film's script was penned by Josh Friedman, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer.
Digital Trends has reviewed The Fantastic Four: First Steps with 4 out of 5 stars. A memorable moment from the film is a visit to the Marvel Studios set by the creatives of the Fantastic Four comics, including Alan Davis, Chip Zdarsky, Dan Slott, Mark Bagley, Matt Fraction, Ryan North, Sara Pichelli, and Tom DeFalco.
The film is set on an alternate world not previously seen: Earth-828. Matthew Wood voices H.E.R.B.I.E., a robot character in the film. Ralph Ineson plays Galactus, the cosmic entity who demands the team's ultimate sacrifice.
With its compelling storyline, star-studded cast, and formidable villains, The Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to be an exciting addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In the unfolding chapters of Marvel's cinematic universe, movies and television shows play a significant role in entertaining fans. "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" stands as an illustrative example, showcasing captivating entertainment with its action-packed narrative and A-list cast.
