5 Major MCU Questions Fantastic Four Has to Answer For Avengers: Doomsday to Make Sense

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Upcoming movie “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is about to premiere in theaters, carrying a significant load of expectations. This film marks the fourth time the Fantastic Four characters have been reintroduced to cinema-goers over the past two decades. Not only does it present these characters and an entirely new realm for them within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it also lays the groundwork for “Avengers: Doomsday.” Given all of this, the film has a lot on its plate, even though it doesn’t necessarily have to cover every detail in its runtime. However, there are five key aspects that this movie needs to clarify to ensure that “Avengers: Doomsday” makes sense both narratively and logistically when it comes to plot and organization.

Consistently, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has established ambitious objectives, and the upcoming movie, Fantastic Four: First Steps, is no exception. However, judging by the early hype surrounding the film, it seems they are more than capable of achieving this feat.

5) What Is Doom to the F4?

In various interviews promoting the upcoming “Fantastic Four” movie, director Matt Shakman has clearly mentioned that Robert Downey Jr.’s character, Victor von Doom, will not be featured in his film, implying that he is not involved with this specific project.

As a dedicated fan of the Fantastic Four, it’s hard to swallow this piece of news: It seems Victor Von Doom isn’t just our heroes’ sworn enemy, but their connection runs much deeper. In fact, his origin story is frequently intertwined with the very events that bestowed the F4 with their extraordinary powers, a link that has been evident in both the 2005 and 2015 movie adaptations.

Now, there’s a slim chance that Shakman is pulling a fast one to save an unexpected cameo from RDJ in First Steps, but if his words hold true, the film must find a means to illustrate this intricate bond between Doom and the Fantastic Four. With Avengers: Doomsday set to make Reed Richards versus Doom a pivotal plot point, it would be a squandered opportunity if we had to endure yet another storyline where our heroes and their nemesis only cross paths for the first time.

Even in the absence of Doom himself in First Steps, there are ways to hint at his influence, ensuring that Doomsday can kick off with full steam ahead.

4) What Is Galactus to the Multiverse?

Since the announcement in Fantastic Four: First Steps that Galactus would be the antagonist in the film, avid Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) followers have been speculating about how this cosmic entity will fit into the MCU’s continually growing Multiverse Storyline. A common query among fans is whether Galactus possesses multiple forms or if he is a unique being who travels across various universes.

In simpler terms, the storyline of Marvel Comics has presented Galactus as a single, primary character, but there are variations like the “Gah Lak Tus” mechanical swarm in the Ultimate Universe (1610), which later merged with the humanoid form from the main 616 universe. However, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has deviated significantly from comic book lore, particularly with regard to cosmic elements. At this stage in the franchise, it could be just as important to introduce the concept of a different Galactus for each universe as it is to suggest that Galactus travels across multiple universes, consuming worlds. The story First Steps should clarify which version is accurate.

3) How Did the F4 Become the Biggest Heroes of Their World?

In the previews for First Steps , it’s evident that the plot revolves around the F4 characters. By the time they appear in the movie, they’ve already experienced a transformative space journey that bestowed each of them with extraordinary abilities. During their era, the F4 are hugely popular cultural figures, admired for their heroic actions which have garnered them widespread adoration and esteem from the public.

2) What Are Franklin Richards’ Powers in the MCU?

In part, the title Fantastic Four: First Footsteps alludes to a significant moment – the birth of Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal) and Sue Storm’s (Vanessa Kirby) son, Franklin. In the comics, Franklin is a highly influential figure in the Marvel Universe. The latest previews for the Fantastic Four reboot hint that Galactus is attracted to Earth due to sensing Franklin’s presence, suggesting he may come to claim him. The intrigue lies in understanding why.

From a diehard fan’s perspective, comic book character Franklin Richards possesses an extraordinary ability to mold reality itself, capable of crafting entire realms and cosmos from his fertile mind. However, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has ventured into some power accumulation territory, with lesser-known figures like G’iah (from Secret Invasion) currently reigning supreme as the franchise’s most potent character. Given that Franklin Richards is expected to play a crucial role in the climax of the MCU’s Multiverse Saga, it’s essential to establish clear boundaries regarding his powers and their magnitude. The upcoming Avengers: Doomsday won’t have the luxury of time to lay the groundwork for this intricate chessboard. As the universes converge, we must be well-versed in Franklin’s potential to rectify any chaos that ensues.

1) Is It Really Them In That Rocket Ship?

Marvel Studios took an unusual approach in the post-credits scene of their latest film, Thunderbolts, seemingly giving away the ending before it even premieres. This unique revelation occurs when the New Avengers/Thunderbolts team uncovers a surprising development: an unknown spacecraft approaching Earth’s atmosphere. Although the New Avengers are puzzled about the ship’s identity, MCU enthusiasts immediately recognized the distinctive “4” emblem on its side, hinting at something significant to come.

Ever since “Thunderbolts” dropped, I’ve been buzzing with excitement as Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige has hinted that there might be some uncertainty about whether the New Avengers spotted ship belongs to the same Four from “First Steps”. This has sent fans into a frenzy, sparking all sorts of theories. Some speculate that cast members from the 2005 or 2015 versions of “Fantastic Four” could be seeking refuge after their universe came to an end. Another intriguing theory suggests that the surviving Fantastic Four members from Earth-838 might be making a comeback, perhaps to avenge the death of their Reed at the hands of Scarlet Witch in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps will open in theaters and IMAX this week.

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2025-07-22 00:16