The highly awaited Fantastic Four: First Steps—directed by Matt Shakman—is officially hitting the big screen on July 25, 2025. This new film marks the beginning of Marvel’s Phase Six in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), following up major events like Wakanda Forever and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Starring:
Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic)🆕 Also referred to as “Mister Fantastic” in early marketing material and official Marvel press releases.
Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman)
Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (Human Torch)
Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (The Thing)
The film also features supporting roles by Julia Garner as The Silver Surfer, Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, and Ralph Ineson, whose role remains a mystery, possibly an enigmatic herald or even a ravenous space god like Galactus.
Long-time fans are also buzzing about the rumored post-credit appearance of Doctor Doom, the Fantastic Four’s most iconic nemesis, who could serve as a major villain across the next MCU phases.
Marvel’s choice to launch Fantastic Four: First Steps on July 25, 2025, isn’t just about scheduling—it’s about synergy. The date aligns with Fortnite and Marvel Rivals events, ensuring a synchronized global push that amplifies awareness across cinema, gaming, and fan communities simultaneously.
This reboot steps away from the previous versions by 20th Century Fox and even the unreleased Roger Corman version. Instead, Marvel Studios, now under Kevin Feige, aims for a 1960s-inspired alternate universe set in New York City, giving fans a fresh take on the origin story of Marvel's first family.
The film celebrates the legacy of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, reintroducing the strength of their family bond and exploring themes of heroism grounded in science, cosmic discovery, and responsibility—much like early MCU films like Captain America: The First Avenger or Iron Man.
In collaboration with Epic Games, Marvel has launched a Fortnite Fantastic Four Cup on July 23, 2025, two days before the theatrical debut. Compete in a Squads Cup to win exclusive Fantastic Four skins:
Reed Richards skin with Elastic Pickaxe
Sue Storm’s Invisible Cloak
Johnny Storm's Fire Trail Emote
Ben Grimm's Smash Back Bling
Timed cosmetics like “It’s Clobberin’ Time” Spray and a Human Torch Emoticon will unlock based on survival time in matches.
On the film’s release date—July 25 at 8:00 PM ET—Fortnite players worldwide (especially across the United States) can buy the Fantastic Four bundle in-game.
Epic’s press release teased this bundle as “celebrating the strength of Marvel’s most iconic family with style and firepower.” Skins will be available through July 31.
Marvel Rivals, a hero shooter from NetEase, released its Fantastic Four update alongside the movie. The new team-up ability pairs Human Torch and Ben Grimm, letting players ignite terrain and smash enemies in synchronized moves.
The game update includes:
A cinematic first look at Sue Storm’s protective force fields
Reed Richards' stretching traversal
Johnny Storm’s aerial fire boost
Ben Grimm’s seismic ground pounds
Developed by Jeff Kaplan (former Overwatch director), Marvel Rivals continues the MCU’s shift into interactive gaming, enhancing characters introduced on the big screen.
This Fantastic Four release date is not just another Marvel launch—it’s the gateway to major storylines like Secret Wars, Brave New World, and possibly even a multiversal Infinity War sequel. The new team will connect with Captain Marvel, Black Panther, Doctor Strange, and maybe even Hope van Dyne (The Wasp) as the franchise continues to expand.
Director Matt Shakman has taken over from Jon Watts (originally signed in 2022), and is working with screenwriters Eric Pearson and Ian Springer to deliver a more character-driven story, heavily influenced by classic comics.
Music for the film is composed by Michael Giacchino, known for scoring Spider-Man: No Way Home and Up.
Critics who attended early screenings at Hollywood Reporter’s invite-only event in New York praised the film’s nostalgic visuals and emotional depth. The chemistry among the four leads—especially between Pascal and Kirby—was a highlight.
Rotten Tomatoes has yet to release a critic score, but industry forecasts place it among the top 5 box office openings of 2025, just behind Deadpool & Wolverine and Avengers: Secret Wars.
The end credits scene introduces connections to the entire planet-devouring villain Galactus, and hints at a future crossover with Doctor Strange, Captain Marvel, and possibly even Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man.
Following the film:
A sequel, tentatively titled Rise of the Silver Surfer, is in development at 20th Century Studios
The team is confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday (December 2026)
Rumors suggest Sarah Niles and Natasha Lyonne may appear in Phase 7 projects
Marvel aims to correct the mistakes of previous film series by grounding this version in emotion, cosmic awe, and interconnected storytelling.
With Matt Shakman at the helm, a talented cast led by Pedro Pascal, and strong gaming integrations, the Fantastic Four release date on July 25, 2025 represents more than a film launch—it’s a multi-platform rebirth of Stan Lee’s most iconic superhero team.
Whether you’re dropping into Fortnite, battling in Marvel Rivals, or sitting in a packed theater in New York City, the Fantastic Four are ready to take their rightful place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Alex Castellari · Editor
Editor
