Marvel Studios just dropped the first teaser for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, giving fans their long-awaited look at the MCU’s take on Marvel’s First Family. Slated for a July 25, 2025 release, this film isn’t just another reboot—it’s a bold, retro-futuristic reimagining that taps into the classic 1960s era where the team was born. And from the teaser alone, it’s clear that The Fantastic Four are stepping into the spotlight in a big way.
A Fresh Take with a Vintage Feel
Unlike previous adaptations, First Steps leans into the aesthetics and optimism of the ’60s, embracing the golden age of space-age futurism. Matt Shakman, who previously helmed WandaVision, is at the helm, bringing that same blend of nostalgia and innovation. From the film’s title card to the sleek, mid-century-modern Baxter Building, everything screams classic Fantastic Four with a modern twist.
The Cast: A Powerhouse Lineup
Pedro Pascal leads the charge as Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic, sets the tone with a monologue about family bonds. His portrayal hints at a Reed who’s both a genius and a compassionate leader. Opposite him, Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm (Invisible Woman) reinforces that the team’s strength lies in their unity. Joseph Quinn’s Johnny Storm (Human Torch) is already showing off that cocky charm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm (The Thing) brings the gruff-yet-lovable energy. Fans are already in love with The Thing’s look, complimenting the CGI / art direction of the characters’s trailer debut.
But the biggest reveal? A shadowy glimpse of Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson. This cosmic-level threat instantly raises the stakes and suggests that the Fantastic Four won’t just be dealing with street-level villains—they’re stepping into one of the MCU’s biggest cosmic conflicts yet.
Easter Eggs and First Looks
Marvel loves to sprinkle in nods for die-hard fans, and this teaser is no exception. One of the biggest surprises is the inclusion of H.E.R.B.I.E., the quirky robot sidekick from the 1978 Fantastic Four animated series. Whether he’s comic relief or a key player remains to be seen, but his presence confirms Marvel is deep in the archives for this one.
Meanwhile, we get quick shots of the team’s powers—Johnny’s flames ignite, Sue’s force fields shimmer, and Ben’s rocky form looms large. Interestingly, Reed’s elasticity is teased but never fully revealed, leaving fans speculating on how the CGI will bring his abilities to life.
The Fantastic Four: Future of the MCU
Kevin Feige has made it clear that The Fantastic Four are going to be a central pillar of the MCU moving forward. With the X-Men on the horizon and Avengers assembling once again, it’s looking like the next phase of Marvel’s cinematic universe is getting back to its roots—big personalities, even bigger stakes, and the return of one of Marvel’s most beloved teams.
If the teaser is any indication, First Steps is bringing something new yet familiar, crafting a Fantastic Four film that finally does justice to the legacy of Marvel’s first family. After the last phase of MCU films and shows fell flat on its face outside of a few exceptions, Marvel Studios is going back to the basics and First Steps seems to be on the right trajectory to bring some serious sauce back to comic book movies this summer.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps Official Teaser
