2025 is a momentous year for Marvel, but nothing surpasses the anticipation surrounding The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This Phase 6 MCU launch finally introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his family, promising to deliver the long-awaited exceptional Fantastic Four film.
The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and our first glimpse of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, one question dominates fan discussions: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills
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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
Marvel's San Diego Comic-Con announcement that The Avengers 5 (renamed The Avengers: Doomsday) would feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom was a surprising revelation. Fans naturally wonder about the Fantastic Four film's role in establishing Doom as the next major Avengers-level threat.
Marvel Studios is remaining tight-lipped. The teaser provides no direct hints of Doom's presence, highlighting First Steps' different approach. Unlike previous films where Doom was a central villain (Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, Toby Kebbell in 2015), this iteration prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's character.
We can assume First Steps will establish Doom's role, given his connection to the Fantastic Four and the film's release before Avengers: Doomsday in May 2026. A key question is Doom's universe of origin; he's clearly not from Earth-616. Is he from the First Steps universe, an alternate Tony Stark reality, or another world entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would clarify his role and motivations.
Regardless, Doom won't be the central focus; the Fantastic Four face larger, literal problems.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser showcases Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson (Game of Thrones), as the primary antagonist. Inspired by the classic "Galactus Trilogy," the film depicts an established Fantastic Four facing a cosmic threat.
The film explores the lengths Reed and his family will go to save Earth. Will the Ultimate Nullifier appear, connecting to the Multiverse Saga? This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer's depiction; here, he's a humanoid character, not just a force of nature, reflecting Ineson's casting.
While Galactus is shown, his herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), is absent. We anticipate a similar arc to Laurence Fishburne's portrayal in 2007, starting as Galactus' herald before rebelling.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing?
Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character is a mystery. Rumors suggest Ivan Kragoff (Red Ghost) or Mole Man. Malkovich's casting as Red Ghost aligns with his past roles, though the film's approach to the character's campy origins is uncertain.
Alternatively, Malkovich could be Mole Man, given his character's appearance. He's likely a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four early in the film.
Other unconfirmed roles include Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser.
Meet the Fantastic Four
The teaser primarily focuses on the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn's Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach's Ben Grimm, along with H.E.R.B.I.E.
The film emphasizes their familial bond, highlighting Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt. While not an origin story, flashbacks to the team's origins are included. The costumes differ from previous films, resembling John Byrne's classic comics.
Marketing emphasizes the Future Foundation, raising the possibility of younger heroes, including Franklin and Valeria Richards. Franklin's potential connection to Galactus' attack remains a question.
Fantastic Four: First Steps releases July 25, 2025.
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