Marvel Studios, once known for consistently delivering billion-dollar box office hits in 2018 and 2019, embarked on a significant reset after Spider-Man: Far From Home in 2019. This transition ushered in the new Multiverse Saga, an ambitious initiative that expanded its narrative scope to include television series on Disney+ alongside its traditional feature films.

Among the pivotal projects within this evolving saga, The Fantastic Four: First Steps stands out as a critical entry. This film holds particular significance as it is the first to be set entirely within a new universe and offers audiences their initial glimpse of the iconic villain, Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., who is slated to be the primary antagonist in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps boasts an exceptionally impressive ensemble cast, a hallmark of Marvel's grand productions. The lineup includes Pedro Pascal as the brilliant Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as the powerful Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as the fiery Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the formidable Ben Grimm (The Thing). Further enriching the cast are Ralph Ineson as the cosmic entity Galactus and Julia Garner taking on the role of the Shalla-Bal version of the Silver Surfer.

Expanding on the origins briefly touched upon in the film, Marvel has announced a new prequel comic, Fantastic Four: First Foes - Shalla-Bal. This comic, nearly a year after the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, will delve into the backstory of Julia Garner's Silver Surfer. Penned by Charles Soule with art by Mark Buckingham, the book is scheduled for release on June 10. The synopsis reveals its focus: "Years ago, in order to save her planet, astronomer Shalla-Bal gave up her freedom to become the sustenance-seeking Herald of the intergalactic Devourer of Worlds, Galactus! Now, for the first time, learn the secrets of her transformation, her journey and the horrifying decisions that she had to make!"

Regarding the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, the film, initially delayed from a May slot, is now set to premiere exclusively in theaters on December 18. This release date will create one of the year's biggest opening weekend pairings, as it will debut alongside Dune: Part Three, reminiscent of the simultaneous release of Barbie and Oppenheimer in 2023. All members of the Fantastic Four from First Steps are confirmed to reprise their roles in Avengers: Doomsday, and it has also been confirmed that they will survive the monumental confrontation with Doctor Doom. Their journey is set to continue as they are confirmed to star in Avengers: Secret Wars, which will follow a year later in 2027. Additionally, tenured MCU veterans, including Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Chris Evans as Steve Rogers, are confirmed to return for Avengers: Doomsday.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps itself is directed by Matt Shakman, with a writing team comprising Jeff Kaplan, Josh Friedman, Ian Springer, Eric Pearson, Kat Wood, Jack Kirby, and Stan Lee. Kevin Feige serves as the producer for the film, which has a runtime of 115 minutes and is rated PG-13. Its release date is scheduled for July 25, 2025.