2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year for Marvel across all media, but no project is more eagerly awaited than *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. This film not only marks the beginning of Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but it also introduces fans to Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his superhero family. After years of anticipation, the hope for a truly great Fantastic Four movie is palpable.
The newly released teaser trailer for *First Steps* has heightened this excitement. It offers an in-depth look at the main foursome and our first glimpse of antagonists such as Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. Yet, amidst the thrill, one question looms large for many fans: Where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?
The shock announcement at last year's San Diego Comic-Con that *The Avengers 5* has been renamed *The Avengers: Doomsday* and that Robert Downey Jr. would portray Doctor Doom left fans buzzing. Given the intertwined history of Doom and Iron Man in the comics, this casting choice was both unexpected and intriguing. Naturally, the anticipation for Doom's role in *The Fantastic Four* movie, which serves as a prelude to the next major Avengers-level threat, is high.
Marvel Studios is keeping details under wraps, and the teaser offers no direct clues about Doom's involvement. Instead, it highlights a fresh approach for *First Steps*, distinct from its predecessors. Previous iterations featured Julian McMahon and Toby Kebbell as Doom, but this time, the focus shifts to Galactus, the Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's character.
Despite the absence of Doom in the teaser, it's reasonable to assume that *First Steps* will play a role in setting up his character. After all, Doom is intrinsically linked to the Fantastic Four. With *The Avengers: Doomsday* slated for May 2026, *First Steps* may serve as an essential stepping stone in establishing Doom's narrative arc. The burning question remains: From which universe does Downey's Doom originate? Is he from the same universe as *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*, or does he hail from an entirely different world? Even a brief post-credits appearance could set the stage for understanding who this Doom is and his intentions against the MCU's Avengers.
Whatever role Doom plays in *First Steps*, whether as a supporting villain or a cameo, the Fantastic Four will have their hands full with more immediate threats.
The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus
The teaser trailer makes it clear that Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson, will be the primary antagonist. This character, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, first appeared in *Fantastic Four #48* in 1966, initiating the "Galactus Trilogy." In this iconic storyline, Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, target Earth, prompting the Fantastic Four to take extreme measures to protect their planet.
Galactus's backstory enriches his role in the Marvel cosmos. Originally a mortal named Galan of Taa, he survived the pre-Big Bang universe and bonded with the Sentience of the Universe, becoming Galactus. His mission is to consume life-rich worlds, fulfilling a necessary cosmic function within the cycle of death and rebirth.
*First Steps* draws inspiration from the Galactus Trilogy, presenting a well-established Fantastic Four with a dedicated fanbase facing their most significant challenge yet. The film explores the lengths to which Reed Richards and his family will go to save Earth, possibly involving the Ultimate Nullifier, a powerful weapon from the comics that could play a role in the larger Multiverse Saga and Incursions narrative.
Unlike the depiction in *Rise of the Silver Surfer*, *First Steps* presents Galactus in his humanoid form, emphasizing his character over a mere force of nature. Julia Garner stars as the Silver Surfer, who traditionally starts as Galactus's herald but eventually rebels against him after connecting with Earth.
Who Is John Malkovich Playing?
While Galactus and the Silver Surfer are the main villains, the teaser hints at other threats, including a brief shot of a bearded John Malkovich. Rumors suggest he might portray Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers alongside his three apes in the comics. Alternatively, Malkovich could be playing Mole Man, another classic Fantastic Four adversary.
Regardless of his role, Malkovich's character is likely to be a secondary villain, adding to the Fantastic Four's rogues' gallery. Other unconfirmed cast members include Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser, leaving room for speculation about their roles.
Meet the Fantastic Four
The teaser predominantly showcases the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, along with their helper robot, H.E.R.B.I.E. The film emphasizes the family dynamic, exploring themes of love and dysfunction, particularly Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt over it.
Set in a time when the FF are well-known celebrities, *First Steps* is not an origin story but does include flashbacks to the team's beginnings. The new costumes, reminiscent of John Byrne's 1980s comics, reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes.
Marvel's marketing also highlights the Future Foundation, which Reed establishes to mentor young geniuses. This raises questions about the inclusion of younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The title "First Steps" suggests themes of parenthood and raising children, with a potential focus on Franklin, whose powers might explain Galactus's interest in Earth.
*The Fantastic Four: First Steps* is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, promising to answer many of these questions and more. Will Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom make an appearance? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below.
