Four Go Fantastical: Doom's Mysterious Absence in Teaser

2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel, with The Fantastic Four: First Steps standing out as a highly anticipated project. This Phase 6 MCU film introduces Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and the Fantastic Four, promising a fresh take on the beloved team. The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome, along with antagonists Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson) and a mysterious character played by John Malkovich. However, the absence of Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom, announced last year at San Diego Comic-Con as the villain in Avengers: Doomsday, leaves fans questioning his role.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Images

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Doctor Doom's Absence

The teaser trailer provides no clear indication of Doctor Doom's presence. This contrasts sharply with previous Fantastic Four films, where Doctor Doom served as a central antagonist. First Steps prioritizes Galactus and a currently unidentified Malkovich character, suggesting a different narrative approach. However, given Doom's connection to the Fantastic Four and the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, his appearance, even in a post-credits scene, seems likely. The mystery revolves around his origin; is he from the same universe as the Fantastic Four, a divergent Earth-616 timeline, or an entirely different reality?

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The trailer highlights Galactus as the primary antagonist, drawing inspiration from the classic "Galactus Trilogy" comic arc. The film depicts the Fantastic Four as established heroes facing their most significant challenge yet. The narrative will likely explore the lengths to which Reed Richards will go to save Earth, potentially involving the Ultimate Nullifier. This version of Galactus, unlike previous film iterations, is presented in a more humanoid form, emphasizing character over a purely destructive force.

While Galactus is prominently featured, his herald, the Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. The film will likely follow a similar arc to the comics, with Silver Surfer initially serving Galactus before rebelling upon encountering Earth and rediscovering her past.

John Malkovich's Role

Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character remains a mystery. Speculation points towards either Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man, both classic Fantastic Four villains. Malkovich's appearance suggests a secondary antagonist who will clash with the Fantastic Four early in the film.

The Fantastic Four

The teaser focuses heavily on the Fantastic Four themselves, emphasizing their familial bond alongside their superhero roles. The film will explore Ben Grimm's struggle with his transformation and Reed Richards' guilt. While not an origin story, flashbacks to the team's origins are hinted at. The costumes are a significant departure from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic. The inclusion of the Future Foundation in the marketing suggests the potential appearance of younger heroes, possibly including Franklin Richards, whose powers could be connected to Galactus' interest in Earth.

The film's release date is July 25, 2025. A poll invites viewers to speculate on Doctor Doom's appearance.

Will Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom appear in The Fantastic Four: First Steps?

Yes, he'll be a supporting character.Yes, but only in a post-credits scene.No, he won't show up.AnswerSee Results For more on the future of the Marvel Universe, find out what to expect from Marvel in 2025 and see every Marvel movie and series in development.