Marvel Studios has unveiled the final trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, filled with elements fans have eagerly anticipated—superhuman abilities, high-stakes drama, and one ravenous cosmic antagonist. This exciting film is set to release in U.S. theaters on July 25, marking a bold commencement for Phase 6 of the MCU.
Pedro Pascal takes charge of the freshly assembled team portraying Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, with Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, and Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm. However, it’s the final moments of the trailer that have ignited widespread excitement online.
After much anticipation, fans received a glimpse of the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, and the planet-consuming Galactus, voiced by Ralph Ineson. Although Galactus’ screen time is limited, his imposing and otherworldly presence is unmistakable, clearly indicating he is not here for a friendly chat. “He does not come to negotiate,” the Surfer expresses in an icy tone.
An Elastic Debut and a Celestial Menace
And indeed—Reed is finally shown stretching. The trailer effectively highlights Mister Fantastic’s well-known, complex powers. A notable moment features Pascal’s Richards bending space-time to save Sue from a gravitational disturbance. It’s bizarre but captivating, looking far superior to the 2005 adaptation.
This marks Marvel’s significant venture into cosmic horror since Eternals, making the tonal shift unmistakable. While the film retains its familial essence, its scope expands dramatically. Director Matt Shakman (WandaVision) appears to be fusing personal storytelling with grand visuals—something the franchise desperately needs following recent financial disappointments like The Marvels.
The ensemble cast also features Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and John Malkovich in undisclosed roles. However, a mysterious figure glimpsed in the trailer’s closing moments has ignited discussions on Reddit. Cloaked, royal, and foreboding—many suspect it’s the infamous Victor von Doom.
This speculation intensified following statements from Kevin Feige, head of Marvel Studios, about how First Steps would establish the foundation for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, slated for 2026. Coupled with rumors of Robert Downey Jr.’s surprise return—not as Iron Man, but as a reimagined Doctor Doom—the last shot of the trailer feels heavier with potential.
Whether or not Doom makes an appearance this time around, Marvel seems earnest about initiating a fresh start—and The Fantastic Four: First Steps appears to be the film that could finally bring it to life.