Fantastic Four: First Steps May Borrow from Critically Acclaimed Comic Series

The Fab Four: Initial Footsteps introduces Marvel’s inaugural superhero squad into the MCU, sparking fan theories about additional aspects it might introduce from the publisher’s history. A poster for the upcoming film hints at the presence of a stunned photographer, potentially Phil Sheldon, suggesting that the movie may incorporate elements from the 1994 miniseries Marvels by Kurt Busiek and Alex Ross. This book delves into the Marvel universe’s history as seen through the eyes of an ordinary individual, Phil Sheldon, who has witnessed some of the franchise’s pivotal moments. If Sheldon is included in Initial Footsteps, then numerous elements from that comic could also be included.

One of the fresh posters for “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” features a character who appears to be a photographer, sparking speculation among fans that he might be Phil Sheldon. While it’s plausible that Sheldon could be present as a stand-in character or an Easter egg, there’s also the possibility that his extensive comic book history could be integrated into the movie. “Marvels” chronicles Sheldon’s experiences as a civilian witness to significant moments in Marvel history, such as the introduction of the original Human Torch Jim Hammond, Namor the Sub-Mariner, and Captain America.

It’s clear that the story First Steps is set in a universe distinct from the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), meaning we won’t encounter any characters we recognize. However, this separation provides an opportunity for new elements within this world, like mutants and the X-Men. In the second installment of Marvels, Sheldon resides in New York City and documents the superhero groups Fantastic Four and the Avengers. Simultaneously, he becomes increasingly concerned as mutants start appearing and observes the public’s reaction to this development.

Marvel Studios is known for saving major surprises for a film’s release, and it looks increasingly likely that the mutants and X-Men from the MCU will be introduced in this manner. It would certainly thrill fans to see them unexpectedly appear in “First Steps,” without taking up too much screentime or derailing the main storyline. Notably, the “Marvels” comic book series features the Fantastic Four’s confrontation with the Silver Surfer, and later, Galactus – confirmed antagonists in “First Steps.

Marvels might offer means to bridge the world of First Steps with the Sacred Timeline of the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe). It remains uncertain when or how this universe will intersect with the main narrative, but given that it’s known as the “Multiverse Saga,” it’s likely that everything will culminate eventually. If this occurs, Phil Sheldon could potentially have a significant role in introducing the Fantastic Four to new audiences via his memoir, Marvels. This book details various super-powered beings he has encountered throughout the years, ranging from androids to mutants to oddities such as the Fantastic Four. Connecting all these diverse heroes and chronicling their histories could be crucial in bringing together individuals from different realities.

In other words, if we’re venturing into guesswork, there are additional characters from Marvels that could potentially join Sheldon in First Steps. As a novice photographer, Phil interacts with an array of Marvel characters, making almost nothing impossible. It’s noteworthy that the miniseries’ epilogue presents Nova, a character eagerly anticipated by fans to appear in the MCU. Given his past ties with the Fantastic Four and his link to cosmic entities we’ve previously seen on screen, it seems an opportune moment to introduce him.

In the sci-fi style setting of “First Steps“, there’s a seamless link to “Marvels“. The comic spans the 20th century, pinning numerous Marvel universe occurrences to a precise timeline. Just as New York City serves as a crucial piece of Marvel’s past, these decades are significant in understanding Marvel’s history. A standalone movie could provide an intriguing exploration of these time periods. Although it’s merely an aesthetic connection, for a medium like visual storytelling, that’s meaningful enough.

Without delving into specifics, it’s quite plausible that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finds inspiration in “Marvels” due to its immense popularity. Published in 1994, the series bagged three Eisner Awards and spawned numerous other works in its wake. Adored by fans and critics alike, it frequently serves as a reference point for various creators across different platforms. Thus, it makes strategic sense for Marvel Studios to tap into this source material, introducing new readers to it concurrently.

Regardless of what’s to come, we won’t have to wait long to find out. The movie “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is set to hit theaters on July 25th. Meanwhile, “Marvels” can be read or enjoyed digitally right now.

2025-02-09 03:39

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