2025 is a pivotal year for Marvel, but no project looms larger than The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This Phase 6 MCU opener finally introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his family. After years of anticipation, a truly great Fantastic Four film may finally be upon us.
The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and first glimpses 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? Let's analyze the trailer's revelations and omissions.
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 stunned audiences with the announcement that Avengers 5 was renamed Avengers: Doomsday, with Robert Downey Jr. cast as Doctor Doom. Despite the comic book history between Doom and Iron Man, the casting was unexpected. Naturally, fans wonder about Doom's role in First Steps and his build-up as the next major Avengers threat.
Marvel Studios remains tight-lipped. The teaser offers no overt hints of Doom's presence, highlighting First Steps' unique approach. Unlike previous iterations where Doom (Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, Toby Kebbell in 2015) was a central villain, this film prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.
First Steps must play a role in establishing Doom, given his Fantastic Four ties and the film's release before Avengers: Doomsday in May 2026. The film needs to tease the next major Avengers villain.
A crucial question is Doom's universe of origin. Clearly not Earth-616, given the casting. Is he from The Fantastic Four: First Steps' universe? A world where Tony Stark's life took a darker turn? Or another world entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would clarify his identity and motivations against the MCU Avengers. Regardless of his role, Doom won't be the central focus.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser clearly showcases the film's primary antagonist: Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson (Game of Thrones).
Galactus, a classic Marvel character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby (debuting in 1966's Fantastic Four #48), is presented as a cosmic entity devouring planets, fitting within the Marvel Universe's cycle of death and rebirth.
First Steps draws inspiration from the classic Galactus Trilogy, depicting a well-established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge. The film explores the lengths Reed and his family will go to save Earth. Will the Ultimate Nullifier, capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse, appear, connecting to the Multiverse Saga and Incursions?
This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer, appearing humanoid rather than a force of nature, reflecting Ineson's casting.
While Galactus is featured, his herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. Expect a similar character arc to Laurence Fishburne's 2007 portrayal—initially Galactus' herald, but rebelling after encountering Earth and recalling her mortal life on Zenn-La.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing?
While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main antagonists, others are likely involved. The teaser shows John Malkovich, raising the question of his character.
One theory suggests Malkovich plays Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost), a Soviet scientist who gains powers and forms a team with three super-powered apes. Malkovich's history playing Russian characters supports this. The film's handling of the character's campy origins remains unclear.
Alternatively, he could be Mole Man, another iconic Fantastic Four villain rumored for First Steps. Malkovich's appearance suggests a character living underground.
Malkovich likely plays a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four. Given their established status, a rogues' gallery is expected. Several actors' roles remain unconfirmed (Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, Paul Walter Hauser).
Meet the Fantastic Four
The teaser 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.
Family dynamics are emphasized, showcasing both love and dysfunction. Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt are highlighted.
The film depicts a well-established Fantastic Four, not an origin story. However, flashbacks to their origin and the accident granting them powers are expected.
The costumes differ from previous films, resembling John Byrne's 1980s comics, reflecting their scientist-adventurer nature rather than traditional superheroes.
Marketing emphasizes the Future Foundation, raising questions about younger heroes, including Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The "First Steps" title hints at parenthood. Young Franklin's presence and potential connection to Galactus' attack are possibilities.
Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters July 25, 2025.
AnswerSee Results For more on the future of the Marvel Universe, see what to expect in 2025 and all Marvel movies and series in development.
