The Fantastic Four: First Steps – Kotaku's Take

A New Beginning for the Fantastic Four

The film The Fantastic Four: First Steps is deeply rooted in the concept of time. From the very first scene, the audience is plunged into a moment that feels like it’s happening in the middle of a larger story. Dr. Reed Richards, known as Mr. Fantastic, is searching through his 1960s-style bathroom cabinets for iodine. He calls out to his wife, Sue Storm, asking where it is. She responds that she needs twelve seconds. Reed finds this specific request unusual, and it marks the beginning of a recurring theme throughout the movie—time, measured in precise increments.

This moment sets the tone for the film, which centers on a major life change for the team. After two years of trying to have children, one of the members of the Fantastic Four is expecting a child. This means that Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing, and Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, will become uncles. It's an exciting time for the family, but also a critical turning point for the characters and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

A Shift in the MCU Landscape

First Steps arrives at a pivotal moment for the MCU, which has been undergoing a creative reevaluation since the end of the Avengers saga. The pressure on the Fantastic Four is immense—they are tasked with reviving the MCU from its recent struggles, especially after the multiverse storyline lost some of its initial momentum. The competition has also made a strong entrance with their own cinematic universe, adding more weight to the expectations placed on this new film.

Despite these high stakes, the movie manages to feel light and engaging. As the fourth reboot of Marvel’s original superhero team and the first from Marvel Studios, it is directed by Matt Shakman, who previously worked on WandaVision. The script was written by a team of four writers, including Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer. The result is a fun and well-crafted return to form for the MCU, featuring impressive visuals and standout performances.

Origins and Cosmic Conflict

After the revelation that Sue and Reed are pregnant, the film moves into a clever and breezy exposition that explores the origins of the team through a magazine program reminiscent of Ed Sullivan. Viewers see how the team came to be astronauts and how they were exposed to cosmic radiation, granting them their superpowers. This quick prologue sets up the central conflict of the film.

The alien harbinger, the Silver Surfer, appears in Times Square to announce that Earth is marked for destruction by Galactus, a world-eater. In a desperate attempt to save their planet, the Fantastic Four travel into space to convince Galactus otherwise. However, they soon learn that he wants Sue and Reed’s unborn child. If they refuse, he will destroy the Earth. Time becomes a central element in the race to find a solution that saves both the planet and the child.

Character Development and Emotional Depth

As the second act unfolds, the film showcases the strengths of each character. Sue, as the Invisible Woman, draws strength from her deep familial love, while Reed, Mr. Fantastic, tries to solve the problem, even if it means considering the worst options. Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby deliver mature and emotionally rich performances that stand out in the MCU. Their relationship remains strong, even during heated arguments, providing a solid foundation for the story.

Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm play secondary roles but are not overshadowed. Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal of The Thing brings moments of melancholy and self-reflection, yet he remains the heart of the family. Johnny, meanwhile, proves he is more than just a flirt, showing passion and capability that match his superfamily.

Visuals and Cosmic Scale

One of the most striking aspects of First Steps is its retro-future aesthetic, inspired by the 1960s. The film is filled with vibrant colors, particularly a blue hue that gives it a unique look compared to other MCU projects. Director Matt Shakman’s visual style creates awe-inspiring moments, such as when the family first sees Galactus. These scenes are among the most memorable in Marvel’s history.

Michael Giacchino’s score enhances the cosmic scale of the film, making it feel grand and epic. The film captures the spirit of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee’s original comic book vision, bringing a sense of wonder and spectacle to the screen.

A Few Hiccups in the Third Act

While the film excels in many areas, it does face some challenges in the third act. The plot can feel predictable, and the conclusion is somewhat rushed. The villains, particularly the Silver Surfer, are underdeveloped compared to the main characters. The short runtime also leads to some events being handled too quickly, leaving moments that could have benefited from more attention.

A Thrilling Experience

Despite these minor issues, First Steps is an entertaining and thrilling experience. It manages to balance action, emotion, and humor while delivering a fresh take on the Fantastic Four. The film leaves viewers feeling excited about what the future holds for the MCU. Whether it’s the seconds that Reed needs to save the world or the years that will pass as their child grows, time is always a factor—but in this case, it’s used effectively to create a compelling and memorable story.

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Is Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four: First Steps? Here's the Answer

The Unexpected Arrival of Doctor Doom in the MCU

Following Thanos' ruthless quest for the Infinity Stones, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been searching for its next major antagonist. After the release of Avengers: Endgame, the focus shifted toward the Multiverse Saga, with initial hints pointing to Kang the Conqueror as the primary threat. However, this plan was ultimately abandoned, leading to a surprising shift in direction.

Instead of Kang, Marvel Studios chose to introduce a new villain: Doctor Doom. Known as the ruler of Latveria and a long-time adversary of the Fantastic Four, Doom's presence in the MCU has been a topic of much speculation. Fans were eager to know if he would play any role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, especially after the film’s announcement.

Director Matt Shakman initially claimed that Doom wasn’t part of the scenes he filmed, which led to some confusion among fans. But after months of anticipation, the truth emerged — Doctor Doom made a dramatic appearance in the first post-credits scene of the movie.

A Terrifying Introduction

The first post-credits scene takes place four years after the Fantastic Four saved their universe from an intergalactic threat. In this sequence, Sue Storm is reading a story to her son, Richard, when she senses something is wrong. As she turns to find the next book, the camera slowly reveals Richard reaching out to someone in the room — none other than Doctor Doom.

Though his back is turned and his mask is partially obscured, the moment is unmistakable. This scene was filmed by the Russo Brothers, which explains why Matt Shakman could claim Doom wasn't in the movie he directed. However, the appearance confirms that Doom is indeed part of the MCU’s future plans.

A Glimpse into the Multiverse

This brief but impactful scene establishes that Doctor Doom comes from Earth-828, where the Fantastic Four live. It also confirms that his mask is true to the comic book version. While Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Doom remains a mystery, the inclusion of the mask hints at a faithful adaptation of the character.

In addition to this post-credits scene, there is a subtle Easter Egg in the film that indirectly confirms Doom’s existence. During a Future Foundation hearing, a representative from Latveria was supposed to be present, but no one showed up. This detail reinforces the idea that Latveria exists within the multiverse, specifically on Earth-828.

Setting the Stage for Avengers: Doomsday

Doctor Doom’s appearance marks a significant shift in the MCU’s narrative. With Spider-Man: Brand New Day set to release soon, The Fantastic Four: First Steps became the perfect opportunity for the villain to make his grand entrance. His arrival sets the stage for what promises to be a major storyline in Avengers: Doomsday.

Scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, Avengers: Doomsday will likely delve deeper into Doom’s plans to dominate the multiverse. Fans are already buzzing with excitement, eager to see how this new threat will shape the future of the MCU.

As the story unfolds, it’s clear that Doctor Doom is not just another villain — he is the next big bad, and his impact on the Marvel universe is only beginning.

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Pedro Pascal Shares Emotional Update for Fans

Pedro Pascal’s Bearded Transformation and the Debate Over His Marvel Role

Pedro Pascal has become a name that resonates across the cinematic world. From wielding blasters in high-octane action sequences to charming entire kingdoms, his filmography reads like a dream come true for any movie enthusiast. With every role he takes on, he manages to blend strength with elegance in a way that feels almost magical. Yet, even this beloved actor isn’t immune to moments of self-doubt. Recently, a revelation about his latest Marvel role has sparked intense discussions among fans and critics alike.

The conversation surrounding Pascal’s casting as Reed Richards, also known as Mr. Fantastic, has gone beyond just the typical debates over casting choices or comic book adaptations. Fans are now deeply engaged in a discussion about the actor's decision to embrace a beard for the role, which has led to both admiration and controversy.

The Bearded Dilemma: A Self-Roast That Went Viral

During an interview with LADbible Entertainment, Pascal delivered a self-roasting moment that quickly became a highlight of the conversation. He admitted, “I grow such s--- facial hair. But, if I were to shave it all off, I really look very... strongly disagree with a clean shaven me.” This confession was not only humorous but also revealing, showcasing Pascal’s willingness to poke fun at himself.

His last attempt at going clean-shaven was during his role in Wonder Woman 1984, which left him deeply unsettled. “I was so appalled by the way I looked [in Wonder Woman 1984] that I've never gone back,” he shared. For Pascal, the beard is more than just a style choice—it’s a form of survival. Fans are now wondering if they will ever see him without it again.

Reed Richards and the Debate Over Facial Hair

In the comics, Reed Richards is typically depicted with a clean-shaven chin. However, Pascal’s portrayal of Mr. Fantastic breaks from that tradition. Fans are split on whether this bold choice adds to the character’s depth or detracts from its authenticity. Some appreciate the rugged, seasoned look, while others argue for a more accurate representation of the character.

Pascal is fully aware of the backlash. In an interview with Vanity Fair, he stated, “I’m more aware of disgruntlement around my casting than anything I’ve ever done. ‘He’s too old. He’s not right. He needs to shave.’” It seems that the Marvel multiverse is once again facing a new debate—one centered around beards, age, and the expectations of fans.

Hearts, Not Jawlines: Pedro Pascal’s Commitment to the Role

Despite the controversy, Pascal’s dedication to the role is evident. In his conversation with Vanity Fair, he revealed that the entire team poured their hearts into the project, aiming to create something truly special. This level of commitment is rare, especially for an actor who effortlessly switches between tough and tender roles on screen.

Playing Marvel’s smartest man might not be about having the perfect jawline, but rather about embodying the true heart of a hero. Pascal’s performance seems to reflect this philosophy, adding a layer of depth to the character that goes beyond physical appearance.

The Setting and Release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Set in a retro-futuristic world inspired by the 1960s, The Fantastic Four: First Steps brings together Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm to face monumental challenges, including Galactus and the Silver Surfer. Pedro Pascal, alongside Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, forms Marvel’s First Family for the July 25 release.

Whether Pascal’s bold look becomes a legend or a meme, audiences are in for a nostalgic and emotionally charged experience. The film promises to deliver a mix of nostalgia, heart, and high-stakes storytelling that will captivate fans of the genre.

Final Thoughts

As the debate over Pascal’s beard continues, one thing remains clear—his commitment to the role is undeniable. Whether fans love or hate the look, there’s no denying that Pedro Pascal is bringing something unique to the MCU. His performance is a testament to his versatility and passion for storytelling. What do you think? Is this a bold move or a risky gamble for the MCU? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.

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