🧢 The Fantastic Four Finally Join the MCU

After years of speculation, fan theories, and subtle teases, Marvel Studios is finally bringing the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Fantastic Four: First Steps, set to hit the theatres in July 25th. Directed by Matt Shakman (WandaVision), the film promises a fresh take on Marvel's First Family while honoring their comic book roots.

While exact plot details are still under wraps, the title First Steps strongly suggests an origin story, with a retro or alternate-reality twist, aligning with Marvel’s Multiverse Saga.

Here’s what we can expect so far.

🔭 A Period Piece in a New Timeline?

The movie trailer and early production rumors hint that First Steps may not take place in the current MCU timeline. Instead, the film could be set in the 1960s, echoing the team’s original debut in Marvel Comics (1961). That would allow Marvel to explore:

• A self-contained, retro-inspired setting

• Advanced technology decades ahead of its time (thanks to Reed Richards)

• A unique aesthetic that visually separates it from other MCU entries

The time period might also explain why the Fantastic Four have been missing in previous MCU events - because they were never in the same universe to begin with.

💥 Galactus Looms Over the MCU – And What About Doctor Doom?

The latest trailer for Fantastic Four: First Steps has made one thing crystal clear: Galactus is coming.

In a stunning final shot, the colossal cosmic entity looms over a planetary horizon, confirming that First Steps will introduce one of the most powerful villains in Marvel Comics. Galactus’ presence instantly raises the stakes, signaling that this film isn’t just an intimate origin story - it’s the gateway to an intergalactic threat unlike anything we’ve seen since Thanos.

We will also see the appearance of the Silver Surfer, Galactus’ herald, setting the stage for a cosmic saga that could span multiple MCU phases.

As for Doctor Doom, his involvement remains unconfirmed. Marvel may be holding his reveal for a future project or post-credits scene, letting the Fantastic Four face an external, god-like threat before introducing their most iconic personal rival. That strategy would mirror the MCU’s long game - planting seeds now for Doom to take center stage in later films like Secret Wars.

Whether Doom appears or not, Fantastic Four: First Steps is already shaping up to be one of Marvel's most ambitious introductions yet - kicking off the cosmic endgame with Galactus himself.

🧠 All Roads Lead to Secret Wars (2027)?

While Marvel is keeping tight-lipped about its long-term plans, it's becoming increasingly clear that Fantastic Four: First Steps could be a major stepping stone toward Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).

Here’s why:

• Reed Richards & Multiversal Collapse: In the comics, Reed Richards plays a critical role in the Secret Wars storyline, which involves the destruction and convergence of entire universes into a single "Battleworld." If the film introduces him as a genius multiversal scientist - which the trailer strongly implies - he could be instrumental in identifying or attempting to prevent the collapse of the multiverse.

• Galactus as a Catalyst: Galactus' arrival may not be an isolated threat. In the comics, his presence often signals cosmic imbalance or the end of universes - themes that tie directly into Secret Wars. His appearance in First Steps could foreshadow the events that destabilize the multiverse and lead to full-scale incursions.

• A Soft Reboot? Marvel may use Secret Wars as a chance to reset or reconfigure the MCU - and Fantastic Four could introduce core elements (or even characters) from another timeline that carry over into the post-Secret Wars universe.

• Doctor Doom’s Potential Role: If Doom does appear - even in a post-credit scene - it opens the door for him to become the God Emperor Doom of Secret Wars, as seen in Jonathan Hickman’s comic run. Even a tease would establish his presence long before the main event.

If Marvel follows the blueprint of the comics, Fantastic Four: First Steps isn’t just an introduction - it’s the spark that lights the path to Marvel’s next Endgame.

🔍 Final Thoughts

With Fantastic Four: First Steps, Marvel has the chance to reinvigorate the franchise and re-center the MCU’s future on strong characters, bold sci-fi storytelling, and high-stakes cosmic conflict. It’s the beginning of something massive - and, if the title is anything to go by, just the first step in a new saga.

🧊 Celebrate the Return of the Fantastic Four with Iron Studios

As Marvel brings Fantastic Four: First Steps to the big screen, Iron Studios is proud to honor this iconic team with a new wave of collectible statues - crafted with the detail, scale, and storytelling fans expect.

Whether you’re a lifelong Marvel collector or just joining the fandom with the new movie, there’s no better way to commemorate the First Family’s MCU debut than with museum-quality statues that bring each hero to life.