The Marvel Cinematic Universe is preparing to launch its sixth phase with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, a much-anticipated reboot of the beloved superhero franchise. Directed by Matt Shakman, this installment introduces a fresh lineup of stars—Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach—as the iconic superhero team. Set to premiere in July 2025, the trailer teases a thrilling blend of action, emotion, and a universe-altering threat that sets the tone for Marvel’s future storytelling.
Here are ten major takeaways from the newly released trailer that hint at what’s in store for fans of The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
1. Sue Storm’s Pregnancy Shakes Up the Family Dynamic
One of the most surprising and emotional moments in the trailer comes from Sue Storm, aka the Invisible Woman (played by Vanessa Kirby), who reveals she is pregnant. This revelation adds a personal and intimate layer to the story, especially in how it affects her relationship with Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal). Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn) offers a humorous reaction, declaring, “You’re going to be the best mom in the world! And you are going to be the best dad… just kidding, you are out of your depth.”
2. Galactus Looms Large Over Earth
The trailer introduces a formidable cosmic threat: Galactus. Unlike his previous cloud-like depiction in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, this version appears as a towering, physical entity, walking the streets of New York City and leaving destruction in his wake. His presence signals major consequences not only for the Fantastic Four but potentially the entire MCU.
3. A New Silver Surfer Emerges
Fans were quick to notice that the Silver Surfer, traditionally male in the comics, appears as a woman in the trailer. Played by Julia Garner, this version is believed to be Shalla-Bal, a well-known love interest of Norrin Radd (the original Silver Surfer). Rather than a gender swap, the film seems to reinterpret the character through a new lens while staying connected to comic lore.
4. Retro World with a Modern Tech Twist
The film’s visual style mixes retro aesthetics with futuristic elements. From vintage televisions and old-school show hosts to the team’s iconic suits, the trailer suggests a stylized world distinct from the current MCU setting. These cues hint that the Avengers may not exist in this timeline, positioning the Fantastic Four as Earth’s primary defenders—for now.
5. Time Jumps or Superhuman Pregnancy?
Sue Storm’s pregnancy appears to progress rapidly within the trailer, leading fans to speculate about the possibility of a time jump or even superhero-related biological quirks. When the Silver Surfer arrives, Sue is visibly further along in her pregnancy, prompting questions about the story’s timeline and its implications.
6. Reed Richards Blames Himself for the Crisis
In a vulnerable exchange, Reed Richards admits that he may be responsible for attracting Galactus to Earth. “It’s my fault. I stretched the bounds of space… and they heard,” he says. This line suggests that Reed’s scientific experimentation might have triggered catastrophic consequences, a central theme likely to unfold during the film.
7. The Thing Wins Hearts Instead of Spreading Fear
In a refreshing twist, Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), aka The Thing, is portrayed as a beloved figure rather than a feared outsider. Children cheer him on and ask him to lift cars, while his gentle support of Sue Storm’s pregnancy signals a more empathetic portrayal. This shift could mark a character revamp, moving away from earlier, more somber depictions.
8. Mister Fantastic Faces Uncertainty
Known for his unparalleled intellect, Reed Richards is rarely at a loss for answers. But when asked whether humanity is safe from Galactus, he solemnly replies, “I don’t know.” This moment highlights the enormity of the threat and suggests the film will explore the limits of even the smartest minds in the MCU.
9. The Double Meaning Behind ‘First Steps’
The trailer’s title, First Steps, carries layered significance. It could refer to Galactus’s literal first steps on Earth, Sue and Reed’s future child taking their first steps, or the team’s initial foray into the broader Marvel multiverse. The title cleverly teases both personal and cosmic beginnings, echoing the dual nature of the narrative.
10. A Faithful Take on Reed’s Powers
One long-standing criticism of previous Fantastic Four adaptations has been the comical or underwhelming portrayal of Mister Fantastic’s powers. However, the trailer promises a more accurate and serious interpretation of his stretching abilities, one that aligns with the character’s potential in the comics and the larger MCU.
A Promising Start to Marvel’s Phase Six
The Fantastic Four: First Steps seems poised to blend family drama, sci-fi adventure, and cosmic spectacle into a single, compelling story. With a powerful cast, high stakes, and visually striking scenes, the film is generating considerable buzz among fans and critics alike. If the trailer is any indication, the Fantastic Four may finally be getting the cinematic treatment they deserve—and their journey is only just beginning.
