2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel across various media, but none more eagerly awaited than *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. This film not only heralds the beginning of Phase 6 of the MCU but also introduces Pedro Pascal's portrayal of Reed Richards and his iconic superhero family. After decades, the anticipation for a truly remarkable Fantastic Four movie is palpable, and the recently released teaser trailer for *First Steps* suggests that the wait might soon be over.
The teaser provides an intimate look at the core team and introduces antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the burning question on many fans' minds remains: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's delve into what the trailer reveals and what it leaves to our imagination.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills
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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom?
Last year's San Diego Comic-Con sent shockwaves through the Marvel community with the announcement that *The Avengers 5* has been retitled *The Avengers: Doomsday* and that Robert Downey Jr. would portray Doctor Doom. Given the rich history between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, this casting choice was both surprising and thrilling. Fans are naturally curious about how *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* will lay the groundwork for Doom's emergence as the next significant Avengers-level threat.
Marvel Studios is keeping their cards close to the chest, as the teaser offers no direct hints of Doom's presence. Instead, it highlights a fresh approach to the franchise, diverging from previous films where Julian McMahon's Doom was a central antagonist in 2005's *Fantastic Four* and its 2007 sequel, and Toby Kebbell's Doom featured prominently in the 2015 reboot. This time, the focus shifts to Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic role.
Although Doom is conspicuously absent from the teaser, we can't help but expect *First Steps* to set the stage for his arrival. As a quintessential Fantastic Four villain, Doom's introduction seems imminent, especially with *Avengers: Doomsday* slated for May 2026. Fans are eager to learn more about Downey's Doom, particularly which universe he originates from. Is he from the same world as *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*, or does he come from a darker alternate reality? Even a brief post-credits appearance could shed light on his character and his motivations against the MCU's Avengers.
Regardless of Doom's role in *First Steps*, whether as a secondary villain or a cameo, the spotlight remains firmly on the Fantastic Four and their monumental challenges ahead.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus -------------------------------The teaser leaves no doubt about the primary adversary in *First Steps*: Galactus, the self-proclaimed Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson from *Game of Thrones*. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Galactus debuted in 1966's *Fantastic Four #48*, initiating the renowned "Galactus Trilogy." In this narrative, Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrive to consume Earth, prompting the Fantastic Four to take drastic action.
Galactus' backstory has evolved over time, revealing his origins as Galan of Taa, a survivor of the pre-Big Bang universe who transformed into Galactus after merging with the Sentience of the Universe. His mission to consume life-rich planets underscores a vital cosmic function within the Marvel Universe's cycle of death and rebirth, though it spells doom for any targeted world.
First Steps draws heavily from the classic Galactus Trilogy, portraying a well-established Fantastic Four confronting their most formidable challenge yet. The film hints at the lengths Reed Richards and his family might go to save Earth, including the potential use of the Ultimate Nullifier, a device capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. This weapon's inclusion could tie into broader MCU narratives like the Multiverse Saga and Incursions.
Unlike the more abstract depiction of Galactus in *Rise of the Silver Surfer*, *First Steps* presents him in a more traditional, humanoid form, towering over iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. This approach promises a deeper character exploration, justifying the casting of Ineson.
While Galactus is prominently featured, his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, remains unseen in the teaser. Historically, the Silver Surfer, introduced in the same issue as Galactus, transitions from loyal scout to a hero after empathizing with Earth's plight. Expect a similar arc in *First Steps*, with the character grappling with memories of her life on Zenn-La, leading to a rebellion against her master.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing? ------------------------------While Galactus and Silver Surfer dominate the film's antagonistic lineup, John Malkovich's brief appearance in the teaser has sparked curiosity. Rumors suggest he might portray Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four and leads a team called Red Ghost and the Super-Apes. Given Malkovich's history with Russian roles, this casting seems plausible, though the extent to which the film will embrace the character's campy origins remains uncertain.
Another theory posits that Malkovich could be playing Mole Man, another classic Fantastic Four villain rumored to appear. Known for his subterranean empire and desire to conquer the surface world, Mole Man's appearance aligns with Malkovich's rugged look in the teaser.
Regardless of his role, Malkovich is likely to be a secondary villain, challenging the Fantastic Four early in the film. This fits with the established status of the team, suggesting a well-developed rogues' gallery.
Malkovich is one of several actors with unconfirmed roles, including Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser. Their characters remain a mystery, inviting fan speculation and theories.
Meet the Fantastic Four -----------------------The teaser predominantly showcases the Fantastic Four, led by Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby's Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn's Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach's Ben Grimm. The film emphasizes the team's familial dynamics, highlighting Ben's struggle with his transformation into The Thing and Reed's guilt over causing it.
*First Steps* positions the Fantastic Four as established celebrity heroes, moving away from traditional origin stories. However, brief flashbacks to the team's beginnings, including pre-Transformation Ben and the aftermath of their power-granting accident, suggest some exploration of their origins.
The film introduces new costumes, adopting a blue and white color scheme reminiscent of John Byrne's 1980s comics. These outfits reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers, sporting functional Space Age uniforms rather than traditional superhero attire.
Marvel's marketing has also highlighted the Future Foundation, a comic book initiative led by Reed to foster the next generation of super-geniuses. This focus raises questions about potential younger heroes, including Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The "First Steps" title suggests themes of parenthood and child-rearing.
Young Franklin Richards, known for his immense powers, may play a crucial role, possibly even explaining Galactus' interest in Earth. Fans will discover these details when *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* premieres on July 25, 2025.
Will Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom make an appearance in *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*? Share your predictions and theories in the comments below.
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