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The Fantastic Four Makes Their MCU Debut in First Steps Trailer

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On February 4th, Marvel chose to link their movie promotion with the traditional calendar system. Instead of using a number sequence, they opted for “F4,” which also happens to be the name of their upcoming blockbuster superhero film in 2025, titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” They released the first trailer on this day.

For the first time, Marvel Studios is bringing the Fantastic Four to life in their own movie, making it the initial appearance of this iconic team within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The cast includes Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as The Thing. Known for his work on the popular WandaVision series on Disney+, Matt Shakman directs this film.

Watch the first full trailer for the movie below:

We’re currently on our fourth attempt at a Fantastic Four movie series, even though the initial one wasn’t officially released. This first one was produced by Roger Corman and served to maintain a producer’s control over the film rights. Unfortunately, it wasn’t good, and this seems to be a recurring issue with FF films.

The first genuine, high-budget, actually-released Fantastic Four movie came from Fox in 2005. It starred Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Michael Chiklis, and Chris Evans, who was yet to play Captain America as the Human Torch. While the film isn’t fantastic, it did well enough at the box office to warrant a sequel, which was 2007’s Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.

The first one wasn’t perfect either, but it was almost like watching “Hamlet” compared to the 2016 version of “Fantastic Four,” especially the film from 2015. Starring Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Jamie Bell, and Michael B. Jordan before his role in “Black Panther” as the Human Torch, this adaptation was a darker interpretation of the characters. Plagued by stories of behind-the-scenes chaos (and numerous reshoots), the movie flopped in cinemas and received some of the most negative reviews for a Marvel production ever. Eventually, Marvel took over Fox, paving the way for this new version of the story.

Here is the official synopsis for Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps:

Amidst the colorful setting of a 1960s-style, advanced yet nostalgic universe, Marvel Studios presents “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” featuring Marvel’s original superhero team – Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). This group, known as the Fantastic Four, is confronting their toughest challenge yet. They struggle to maintain their heroic duties alongside their strong familial ties. The threat they face this time is a ravenous cosmic entity named Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his mysterious ally, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). Not only does the prospect of Galactus consuming Earth and its inhabitants pose a significant danger, but the risk becomes deeply personal.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is currently scheduled to open in theaters on July 25.

The Most Anticipated Movies of 2025

Wolf Man

In this new adaptation, Universal’s take on “The Wolf Man” (or “The Wolfman”) is a sleep-inducing visual spectacle, despite Rick Baker’s valiant efforts. The secret weapon in this reboot is Leigh Whannell, a gifted writer and director who demonstrated with his 2020 adaptation of “The Invisible Man” that he excels at infusing classic Universal monsters with contemporary fears and motifs. This time, the role of the Wolf Man is played by Christopher Abbott, whose character undergoes a transformation following an encounter with a werewolf in a forest near his old family home. Given Whannell’s brilliance in “The Invisible Man,” it’s clear that this simple premise hints at a much deeper and more complex story.

Dog Man

Title Date: January 31

If you’re a parent with elementary school-aged children, you’re likely familiar with “Dog Man,” the highly acclaimed graphic novel series penned by Dav Pilkey, renowned for his work on “Captain Underpants.” This series combines elements of science-fiction and superhero stories with humor that appeals to both kids (and their not-so-mature dads) through its offbeat comedy. Intriguingly, these books also contain a fair share of tender moments.

“Dog Man” is a unique series, and adapting its distinctive tone could prove challenging. However, the trailer for the upcoming film seems to have hit the mark, as indicated by my two kids (and their not-so-mature dad).

Captain America: Brave New World

* Release Date: February 14th
* (Line break)
* Marvel is gearing up for a significantly more active year compared to 2024, where they only released a single film, “Deadpool & Wolverine.” In contrast, they have three releases lined up in 2025. One of these films is the near-conclusion of Phase Five of their cinematic universe, titled “Captain America: Brave New World.” This movie holds special appeal because it marks Anthony Mackie’s debut as the new Captain America. Moreover, it brings back several crucial supporting characters from “The Incredible Hulk” after an absence of 15 years, including Betty Ross and The Leader. Lastly, fans can look forward to seeing Harrison Ford portray the enraged monster known as Red Hulk in this film.

Mickey 17

The much-anticipated sequel to Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite,” titled by Warner Bros., has experienced several release date shifts. Originally slated for March of last year, it was then rescheduled for January, followed by April, and now set for March of the current year. Let’s hope this date sticks! I eagerly await seeing how Bong Joon-ho will utilize his Oscar Best Picture winner windfall, with Robert Pattinson portraying a man in a dystopian future who consents to be cloned each time he dies, only to encounter one of his duplicates.

The release date for Bong Joon-ho’s new movie, following “Parasite,” has been moved around by Warner Bros. several times. Originally planned for March last year, it was then shifted to January, April, and now March this year. We hope the date sticks! I can’t wait to see how Bong Joon-ho spends his Oscar winnings, with Robert Pattinson playing a character who gets cloned each time he dies, only to meet another clone of himself.

Black Bag

Title Date: March 14

Acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh, who previously collaborated with David Koepp on the films “Kimi” (2022) and “Presence” (January), is back in the realm of spies for the film “Black Bag.” In this thriller, Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender portray a couple of married spies. However, their relationship becomes strained when allegations of treason are levied against Blanchett’s character. Reminiscent of “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” but with a more sophisticated and gritty edge, we can’t wait to see it!

Sinners

In the timeframe spanning between “Creed” and “Black Panther,” Ryan Coogler has helmed some of the finest franchise films this century has seen. It’s refreshing to see him venture into new territory. Notably, Michael B. Jordan, who has starred in all previous Coogler productions thus far, will join forces with Coogler once more on an upcoming project titled “Sinners.” Details about the plot remain under wraps, but it’s been reported that this Warner Bros. production, which attracted a fierce bidding war among several studios, is a period horror film centered around vampires.

The Accountant 2

In just about a decade, the beloved accountant-turned-hitman character, who has been a favorite among viewers on Wednesday nights on TNT, returns! That’s right, the long-awaited sequel to the 2016 action thriller hit, “The Accountant,” starring Ben Affleck once again, is here. Directed by Gavin O’Connor, and with co-stars Jon Bernthal, J.K. Simmons, and Cynthia Addai-Robinson, the specifics of the plot might not matter too much – what’s important is that audiences are bound to embrace it wholeheartedly (and there will likely be plenty of accounting humor along the way!).

Lilo & Stitch

Title Date: May 23

Apologies if you’re feeling a bit tired of Disney’s continuous stream of live-action remakes, considering some of the less than impressive ones we’ve seen lately. However, Lilo & Stitch might buck this trend. The story – an alien causing mischief lands on Earth and forms friendship with a solitary Hawaiian girl – seems more suitable for live-action compared to, say, a live-action adaptation of a Shakespearean tragedy featuring talking jungle animals. Moreover, the remake is directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, who previously created Marcel the Shell With Shoes On. Here’s hoping he brings a fresh and original touch to this classic tale. And let’s face it, who doesn’t adore Stitch? He certainly knows how to cause a stir!

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Title Announcement: May 23

Once more, we rely on Tom Cruise to avert disaster and potentially revitalize the summer blockbuster season. In this eighth installment of Mission: Impossible (originally planned as the second half of the seventh Mission: Impossible), Ethan Hunt finds himself thwarting global calamity while executing jaw-dropping stunts. The title hints that this might be the end for this acclaimed series, given Tom Cruise’s current age of 62. However, if it becomes another box office sensation, don’t be surprised if ‘The Final Reckoning’ isn’t truly the final chapter!

Karate Kid: Legends

Title Release Date: May 30

A potential return to karate kicks, both figuratively and literally! When a Karate Kid movie disappoints, it can be truly dismal. However, when they shine, they’re exceptional. The concept of reviving the film franchise with a sequel that features Ralph Macchio as the new Mr. Miyagi, alongside Jackie Chan reprising his Miyagi-like role from the 2010 Karate Kid remake, sounds intriguing. Will Karate Kid: Legends reach the same heights as the original film or the early seasons of Cobra Kai? If they strive for love and glory, it’s conceivable. The action in the trailer certainly looks promising.

28 Years Later

Title Date: June 20

The creative minds behind the film “28 Days Later,” specifically director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland, are returning with a sequel titled “28 Years Later.” Given the current global situation, it’s understandable that they would bring this project to us slightly ahead of schedule (the original movie hit theaters 23 years ago). The new cast members include Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. Although our beloved franchise protagonist Cillian Murphy is rumored to make an appearance. And yes, hordes of fast zombies are back, ready to give us another dose of heart-pounding fear! I can hardly wait to be scared senseless once more.

F1

Date of Release: June 27
I must admit I’m not very familiar with Formula One racing. However, I do know that the upcoming F1 movie is directed by Joseph Kosinski, whose dynamic handling of aerial combat scenes in Top Gun: Maverick surpassed the original film in terms of action. Given this, I have high hopes for a racing movie helmed by Kosinski, especially since it stars Brad Pitt as a retired driver who takes on a young protégé.

Superman

As a movie critic, I must admit, I shared your doubts about James Gunn, the director of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “The Suicide Squad,” taking on the task of making a heartfelt Superman movie. However, the latest trailer has definitely swayed my opinion. David Corenswet steps into the shoes of our beloved Man of Steel, facing off against a new Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult, and yearning for a fresh take on Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan. We’ve seen these characters grace our screens numerous times before, but what sets this movie apart is the introduction of Krypto, a super dog we haven’t encountered in films yet. From the trailers, it seems Krypto is set to steal the show!

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

As a follower eagerly awaiting the upcoming superhero film releases, I’m thrilled to share that July promises an exciting chapter for the superhero movie world. Two weeks after the release of “Superman”, Marvel will unveil its first MCU version of the iconic Fantastic Four team. In this new adaptation, Pedro Pascal portrays Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby steps into the role of Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn dons the Human Torch suit, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach embodies the Thing. Interestingly, Marvel’s “First Steps” deviates slightly from their usual style, as it also serves as a period piece, transposing the storyline into an alternate 1960s reminiscent of the retro-futuristic setting that launched the original Fantastic Four in Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s comics.

Naked Gun

Title Date: August 1

Frankly, I hold no comedy series in higher regard than “The Naked Gun,” the riotous police parodies helmed by David Zucker and the ZAZ crew featuring Leslie Nielsen as the clumsy detective Frank Drebin. Hearing of a new take on this classic franchise without those original creators seemed less than promising — until I found out that this fresh take was directed by Akiva Schaffer, known for his work with The Lonely Island (and “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping”) and stars Liam Neeson in the titular role. Suddenly, it appears to be a fantastic idea!

Wicked: For Good

Release Date: November 21st
It’s true that the second half of the Broadway show “Wicked” has songs that are not as strong as those in the first act. There aren’t any “Popular” or “Defying Gravity” numbers this time around. However, after the success of the first movie, who wouldn’t want to see how the story unfolds for Elphaba, Glinda, and the Wizard of Oz?

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Title Date: December 19

Exciting news! The third installment of the Avatar series is on its way, with rumors suggesting as many as five (or six, or ten, or even forty!) more films to follow. This time around, we’ll journey to a new part of Pandora and meet the “Ash People,” a new Na’vi clan that perhaps Bruce Campbell might lend his motion-capture talents to. As always, James Cameron promises breathtaking visuals, pulse-pounding action, intriguing characters, and fonts that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Avatar 3 is coming on December 19. There might be several more films following this one, but we’ll see the Ash People, a new Na’vi clan. Bruce Campbell could potentially contribute to the motion-capture process for these characters. The movie will have James Cameron’s signature visual effects, action scenes, character development, and unique font designs.

Marty Supreme

In the year 2025, brothers Benny and Josh Safdie, who previously collaborated on the 2019 comic thriller “Uncut Gems”, are set to release separate films. Benny will direct his first solo feature film titled “The Smashing Machine“, a biographical drama about MMA legend Mark Kerr starring Dwayne Johnson. On the other hand, Josh has “Marty Supreme“, a movie focusing on a ping pong champion portrayed by Timothée Chalamet. The year 2025 promises an exciting clash of sports-themed movies from the Safdie brothers.

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

In an upcoming release on Netflix (exact date yet to be unveiled), the enigmatic detective Benoit Blanc returns for another mind-bending mystery. If you’re not a seasoned detective yourself, it might take some sleuthing to pin down the exact premiere date.

This time around, we have an illustrious ensemble cast gracing our screens, including Josh Brolin, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Josh O’Connor, Andrew Scott, Mila Kunis, and the formidable Glenn Close. As for the heart of this mystery, details are still tightly under wraps. However, the title suggests a connection to a classic U2 tune from their ‘Pop’ album, hinting that perhaps there will be a dance floor death this time around. Stay tuned!

Frankenstein

Release Date: To Be Announced (on Netflix)
In related news, Netflix will be home to Guillermo del Toro’s long-awaited adaptation of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”. Del Toro has been eager to bring this horror masterpiece to life for more than a decade. It was Netflix that ultimately made it possible. Oscar Isaac portrays the role of Dr. Frankenstein, with Jacob Elordi from “Euphoria” and “Saltburn” playing his monster. Looks like we’re in for a spooktacular time!

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2025-02-04 16:55

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