Fantastic Four: First Steps - Doctor Doom's Absence in New Trailer

2025 marks a monumental year for Marvel across all media, but none of its projects are more eagerly awaited than "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." This film not only launches Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also introduces fans to Pedro Pascal's portrayal of Reed Richards and his superhero family. With anticipation building, many hope that this will be the long-awaited, definitive Fantastic Four movie that fans have been yearning for.

The excitement is palpable, especially with the release of the teaser trailer for "First Steps." It offers an in-depth look at the main quartet and introduces antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the burning question on every fan's mind remains: where is Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's dive into what the trailer reveals and what it keeps under wraps.

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Where Is Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

Marvel made waves at last year's San Diego Comic-Con by announcing that "The Avengers 5" is now titled "The Avengers: Doomsday" and that Robert Downey, Jr. would portray Doctor Doom. This unexpected casting, given the historical rivalry between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, has left fans curious about how "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" will set the stage for Doom as the next major Avengers-level threat.

Marvel Studios is keeping its cards close to the chest, and the teaser trailer offers no clear hints about Doom's involvement. Instead, it highlights a fresh approach, focusing on Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic role. Previous Fantastic Four films prominently featured Doctor Doom, with Julian McMahon in 2005 and 2007, and Toby Kebbell in the 2015 reboot. This time, however, the focus shifts away from Doom to other cosmic threats.

Given Doom's integral connection to the Fantastic Four, it's reasonable to expect that "First Steps" will lay some groundwork for his character. As one of the last MCU films before "Avengers: Doomsday" in May 2026, it's crucial for setting up the next big villain. The key question is from which universe Downey's Doom originates. Since he's not from Earth-616, could he be from the same universe as "First Steps," or perhaps a darker version of Tony Stark's world? Even a brief appearance in a post-credits scene could provide vital context for his motives and his targeting of the MCU's Avengers.

While Doom's role in "First Steps" remains uncertain, it's clear that the Fantastic Four will have their hands full with other formidable challenges.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser trailer makes it evident that Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, will be the primary antagonist in "First Steps." Voiced by Ralph Ineson, known for his role in "Game of Thrones," Galactus is a classic Marvel character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. He first appeared in 1966's "Fantastic Four #48," initiating the iconic "Galactus Trilogy." In this storyline, Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrive to consume Earth, forcing the Fantastic Four to take drastic action to save their planet.

Galactus' backstory has been expanded in subsequent Marvel narratives. Originally a mortal named Galan of Taa, he survived the pre-Big Bang universe and merged with the Sentience of the Universe to become Galactus. His role in the cosmic hierarchy is to consume life-rich planets, fulfilling a necessary function in the cycle of death and rebirth within the Marvel Universe.

"First Steps" draws heavily from the Galactus Trilogy, portraying a well-established Fantastic Four with a devoted following, now facing their greatest challenge. The film will explore the lengths to which Reed Richards and his family will go to protect Earth. In the comics, Reed uses the Ultimate Nullifier, a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse, to threaten Galactus. Will this weapon feature in the film, and could it tie into the broader Multiverse Saga and the concept of Incursions?

Unlike the 2007 film "Rise of the Silver Surfer," which depicted Galactus as a cloud-like entity, "First Steps" presents him in a more traditional, humanoid form, towering over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. This approach allows for a more character-driven portrayal, justifying the casting of Ineson.

While Galactus is prominently featured, his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is absent from the teaser. The Silver Surfer, introduced in the same comic as Galactus, initially scouts planets for his master but eventually rebels after being moved by Earth's plight. Despite the gender swap, we anticipate a similar character arc for Garner's Silver Surfer, echoing the journey seen in the 2007 film.

Who Is John Malkovich Playing?

While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main threats, the teaser hints at additional antagonists, including a brief shot of John Malkovich. Speculation suggests he might be playing Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four after a space flight with three apes. Alternatively, he could be portraying Mole Man, another classic FF villain rumored to appear in the film. Malkovich's character appears rugged, suggesting a life spent underground, fitting Mole Man's backstory.

Regardless of his role, Malkovich is likely to be a secondary villain, providing early challenges for the well-established Fantastic Four. Other unconfirmed cast members include Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser, sparking further speculation about their Marvel characters.

Meet the Fantastic Four

The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four themselves: Pedro Pascal as the brilliant scientist and family patriarch Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as the intrepid Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as the hotheaded Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the stubborn Ben Grimm. We also catch a glimpse of their helper robot, H.E.R.B.I.E.

The film emphasizes the family dynamics of the Fantastic Four, highlighting their love and dysfunction. It focuses on Ben's struggle with his monstrous transformation and Reed's guilt over causing it. Unlike previous films, "First Steps" is not an origin story but rather set in a time when the FF are already celebrated heroes. However, flashbacks to their origins are included, showing pre-Thing Ben Grimm and the aftermath of the accident that granted them their powers.

The costumes in "First Steps" differ significantly from past iterations, adopting a blue and white color scheme reminiscent of John Byrne's '80s comics. These outfits reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes, with functional Space Age uniforms tailored to each character's personality.

Marketing for the film has also highlighted the Future Foundation, a comic book initiative by Reed to nurture the next generation of super-geniuses. This raises questions about the inclusion of younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The title "First Steps" suggests themes of parenthood and raising children, hinting at Franklin's potential role in the plot, especially given his immense power in the comics.

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, promising to answer many of these questions and more.

What are your thoughts on Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom appearing in the film? Share your theories in the comments below.