The film "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is the 37th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and a reboot of the Fantastic Four film series.[1] It's directed by Matt Shakman and stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn as the titular team.[1] The film is set in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world and avoids the team's origin story, focusing instead on their established roles as heroes.[1] Plot and Themes
The plot involves the Fantastic Four protecting Earth from Galactus, a planet-devouring cosmic being, and his herald, the Silver Surfer.[1] The film explores themes of family, with the team's relationships at its core.[5] The film's setting is in an alternate universe, Earth-828, and is a period piece set in the 1960s.[94] The film's title, "First Steps," has multiple meanings, including the introduction of Reed and Sue's child, Franklin Richards.[118] Cast and Characters
The cast includes Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing, and Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch.[4] Julia Garner portrays Shalla-Bal, a version of the Silver Surfer.[17] Ralph Ineson plays Galactus.[24] The film also features Natasha Lyonne and Paul Walter Hauser in supporting roles.[1] Production and Release
Filming took place at Pinewood Studios in England and on location in England and Spain.[1] The film premiered on July 21, 2025, and is scheduled for release on July 25, 2025, as the first film in Phase Six of the MCU.[1] The film's score is composed by Michael Giacchino.[137] Reception
The film has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the cast chemistry, retro-futuristic design, and the decision to avoid the origin story.[1] Some reviews highlight the film's emotional core and its focus on family.[21] The film is described as a "fresh start" for the franchise.[21] Key Aspects and Criticisms
The film's strengths include the cast's chemistry and the unique visual style, while some criticisms point to a script that is not as strong as it could be and the handling of the villains.[21] The film's retro-futuristic aesthetic is a major highlight.[181] The film is considered a standalone story, not requiring viewers to have prior knowledge of the MCU.[21]
The most relevant answer part is: The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a 2025 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superhero team the Fantastic Four, and is the 37th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the second reboot of the Fantastic Four film series, directed by Matt Shakman and starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn as the titular team, and is scheduled to be released in the United States on July 25, 2025, as the first film in Phase Six of the MCU.
