We finally have our first real look at Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps, and there’s a lot to unpack.
The trailer doesn’t hold back when it comes to big reveals. We get our first glimpse of the Silver Surfer—this time portrayed by a female actor, which already sets a different tone. And yes, Galactus is in the trailer. There’s a wild shot of him walking through the city that’s bound to get people talking.
The Thing gets a little more spotlight too. We see him lifting a car in front of a cheering group of kids and smashing through pillars like a proper Marvel powerhouse. Sue Storm flexes her powers more clearly here, while Johnny Storm is seen chasing after the Silver Surfer in what feels like a nod to the 2005 Fantastic Four film. That moment gives off major déjà vu, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it plays out similarly.
This movie feels like it’s trying to do more than just introduce a new team. It almost carries the weight of being a soft reset for the MCU—a “first step” toward something fresh. Let’s be honest, the MCU has felt a little aimless lately, and this movie is stacked with star power. There’s a unique aesthetic too—a blend of retro-futuristic 60s flair that makes it stand out, but oddly, some of the visuals gave me high-quality TV vibes rather than full-blown cinematic spectacle.
Still, there’s uncertainty. The trailer doesn’t reveal much in terms of plot. There’s no sign of Doctor Doom (yet), which makes sense if this is truly their origin story. But the biggest mystery for me is Reed Richards. We do see him using his powers briefly, but I’m calling it now: I think he doesn’t get his powers until the final act. My guess is the other three get theirs early on, and Reed spends most of the movie trying to help or reverse their condition—until Galactus shows up and forces his hand.
Also, we know Robert Downey Jr. is coming back in some capacity. That’s probably your post-credits stinger. And as cool as that moment could be, it does take away from the movie itself when everyone’s just sitting there waiting for Iron Man.
Overall, the trailer hits a solid 7/10 for me. It looks cool, the cast is genuinely great, and I like the overall tone and alternate-universe vibe. But it left me unsure of what the movie’s actually about—and showed surprisingly little of Galactus. Maybe that’s just unfinished VFX, or maybe Marvel’s playing things close to the chest.
Either way, I’ll be there on opening weekend. Fingers crossed it doesn’t suck.
I think the trailer has TOO MANY reveals and spoilers! I am always wary when a studio feels like they have to give everything away in the trailer, but I guess we shall see.