Why The Fantastic Four’s MCU Debut Could Change Everything for Superhero Movies!

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The Incredible Beginnings of Marvel’s Superhero Family – The Fantastic Four

In this exciting adventure, The Fantastic Four: First Steps will present the debut of Marvel’s original superhero family within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, their long-awaited entrance holds a deeper meaning than many fans might imagine. Kicking off Phase 6, this movie focuses on Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (played by Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they embark on a mission to safeguard their realm from the imminent threats of Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer (Julia Garner).

Noteworthy, The Fantastic Four: First Steps takes place in an alternate timeline distinct from the main Marvel Universe. Nonetheless, hints from the post-credits scene of Thunderbolts* suggest that these heroes will eventually make their way to Earth-616, as they are also expected to appear in 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday.

*Note: The correct title for the movie is ‘Thunderbolts,’ not ‘Thunderbolt.’

The upcoming film “Avengers: Doomsday” could potentially decide the fate of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but it’s important to note that “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” holds nearly equal significance. Factors such as the revival of the Fantastic Four, its release around the same time as “Doomsday,” and the simultaneous launch of the DC Universe with “Superman” two weeks prior make “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” the most crucial MCU movie since 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame.” Its success is vital, and the MCU can’t afford to fall short.

The Significance of The Fantastic Four: First Steps Cannot Be Understated

In its third live-action adaptation, the upcoming movie titled The Fantastic Four: First Steps is bound to draw numerous comparisons with the earlier adaptations from Fox’s 2005 and 2015 Fantastic Four films, including its sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. These past movies did not receive positive reviews from critics or fans. Consequently, the expectations for The Fantastic Four: First Steps are relatively low. The Fantastic Four, who are renowned characters from comic books, have yet to shine in films as they should. If the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) version of the Fantastic Four turns out to be the most successful portrayal of these characters, comic book enthusiasts will be thrilled, and faith in the MCU’s capacity to revitalize cherished heroes before introducing the new X-Men may once again be restored.

First Steps” is the second-to-last Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film to be released before “Doomsday,” and it carries a significant amount of anticipation and importance. This movie has the task of setting up the first Avengers film that will come seven years later, which means it needs to fully flesh out its characters in preparation for their dramatic confrontation with Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr. The story also needs to supply enough background information for the “Doomsday” plotline. A significant portion of excitement for “Doomsday” will depend on how well “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is received by the audience.

DC Is Starting Its Own New Universe

Personally speaking, I can’t help but acknowledge the strategic significance of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” given its timeline. It’s set to debut merely two weeks after James Gunn’s “Superman” graces our cinema screens, introducing David Corenswet as the latest embodiment of this iconic character. This marks the beginning of a much-anticipated new phase in the interconnected DC movies.

It seems like ages since Marvel and DC films held equal sway over box office success or superhero culture. Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy from the 2000s and early 2010s remains DC’s lone beacon of consistent quality, while Wonder Woman (2017) and Aquaman (2018) stand out as exceptions amidst the DC Extended Universe’s chaotic and underwhelming catalog. In contrast, the MCU has capitalized on DC’s missteps, enthralling audiences with the Infinity Saga from 2008 to 2019, and managing to retain its cultural relevance despite a few bumps post-Avengers: Endgame.

With Superman appearing just before The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Gunn’s DCU sets itself up to challenge the MCU for years ahead, as both films prepare for a heated box office and critical battle this summer. These twin comebacks of legendary superheroes promise an exciting competition. Although Superman is initially only one film, it could mark the beginning of a new phase where Marvel and DC fight for dominance in the superhero genre.

The MCU Could Be in Trouble if The Fantastic Four: First Steps Fails

The stakes are high for the MCU with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” While “Thunderbolts” injected new energy into the series, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” needs to maintain this momentum leading up to “Avengers: Doomsday.” The MCU can’t afford a box office flop or negative critical reception for this film, as we get closer to the crucial next installment of “Avengers.” With “Superman” set to raise the bar for success a few weeks prior, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” needs to meet or surpass the reception given to DCU’s flagship movie. If “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” underperforms, the MCU will be in a weakened state heading into “Doomsday,” which already has insufficient buildup. The MCU needs to nail “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” to bring the best version of the Fantastic Four to the big screen, to provide an effective introduction for “Avengers: Doomsday,” and to demonstrate that it remains the leader in the superhero genre.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps opens in theaters on July 25th.

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2025-05-26 21:40