Galactus, one of the Marvel Universe’s most formidable antagonists, makes a dramatic entrance in the latest TV spot for The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The clip showcases the Devourer of Worlds in action, as his colossal Worldship obliterates an unnamed planet, likely absorbing its core to satiate his insatiable hunger.
This cinematic portrayal of Galactus raises intriguing questions about the film’s narrative direction. Will The Fantastic Four adhere to the storyline from the Earth X comics, where Galactus targets planets harboring Celestials? Furthermore, the scope of Galactus’ threat remains uncertain—does it extend beyond our reality into the Multiverse?
Marvel’s In-Universe Expansion
In tandem with the TV spot, Marvel Studios has rebranded the movie’s Instagram account, offering fans a glimpse into the Future Foundation’s archives. This in-universe content provides rich backstory for the film’s characters, notably Reed Richards, who is depicted as a pivotal figure in America’s nascent space program. Richards also hosts a weekly show, Fantastic Science with Mister Fantastic, on ABC and leads ReedTech, a company at the forefront of technological innovation.
Sue Storm’s character is portrayed as a diplomat involved in “groundbreaking peace talks with Subterranea,” while Johnny Storm enjoys celebrity status with his own fan club, the Flaming Hearts. Meanwhile, Ben Grimm is shown to have a passion for “gardening, cooking, and family.”
The Fantastic Four: A Retro-Futuristic Adventure
Set against a vibrant, 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic backdrop, The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). The film explores their struggle to balance superhero duties with familial bonds as they confront Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his mysterious Herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner).
The stakes are high as Galactus’ plan to consume the planet looms, threatening not just global destruction but personal turmoil for the heroes. The film’s ensemble cast includes Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles in undisclosed roles, with rumors of Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom making an appearance, setting the stage for Avengers: Doomsday.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Blockbuster
Director Matt Shakman helms the project, collaborating with Avatar: The Way of Water co-writer Josh Friedman and WandaVision‘s Cam Squires on the screenplay. Eric Pearson, known for his work on Black Widow, later joined the team for a final script polish. The film is slated for release in theaters on July 25, 2025.
This cinematic endeavor not only promises to expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe but also to delve into the complexities of heroism and family dynamics. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await to see how The Fantastic Four: First Steps will redefine the iconic superhero team for a new generation.