The Fantastic Four: First Steps Charts a New Course for Marvel's First Family

Marvel's latest blockbuster, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, isn't just winning over streaming audiences; it's officially anchoring the entire Multiverse Saga's future on Disney+.

TL;DR

• The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a streaming hit, topping charts globally on Disney+ just days after its November 5th debut.
• The film, starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, offers a retro-futuristic 1960s setting and deep family dynamics.
• Disney+ has placed it at the very end of the MCU timeline, positioning it as the crucial launchpad for Phase 6 and future Avengers films.

What if a film set in a retro-futuristic 1960s world, replete with classic comic book vibes, was actually the last story on Marvel’s official timeline? That’s exactly where The Fantastic Four: First Steps now sits on Disney+, not just as a new movie, but as a pivotal beacon pointing directly to the Mcu's future.

This isn't just about another superhero movie hitting streaming; it's about a film that Disney+ itself has declared the definitive launching point for the Multiverse Saga. Released theatrically on July 25, 2025, and making its grand streaming entrance on November 5, 2025, this Matt Shakman-directed feature isn't just a hit—it's a statement. Source: [CNET, 'Fantastic Four: First Steps' Streaming on Disney Plus: Release Date and Time, Nov. 4, 2025].

Its immediate success on Disney+ (and JioHotstar internationally), soaring to the top of viewership charts in over 25 countries, suggests something special is at play. It's a film critics have lauded with an 86% Rotten Tomatoes score, while audiences gave it an impressive 91%, solidifying its reputation as a "sleeper hit" that's resonating deeply with fans. Source: [Mint, Pedro Pascal’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps becomes JioHotstar’s most-watched film after OTT debut, Nov 8, 2025].

Unpacking the Retro-Futuristic Charm and Stellar Cast Dynamics

First Steps doesn't shy away from its unique aesthetic. It plunges us into a vibrant, 1960s-inspired world, drawing directly from the era when Stan Lee and Jack Kirby first brought these iconic characters to life. This retro-futuristic setting, combined with a narrative that grounds itself firmly in family, makes it feel both timeless and refreshingly new.

The casting, too, has been a major highlight. Pedro Pascal as the brilliant Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as the steadfast Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as the fiery Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the ever-loyal Ben Grimm (The Thing) form a quartet that feels incredibly lived-in. Their chemistry has been frequently praised for capturing the essence of a "proper family" battling cosmic threats.

One article even mentioned how the actors embodying the 1994 unreleased Fantastic Four film’s cast echoed this sentiment, feeling they “just did ourselves” when bringing their characters to life. This natural connection to the roles seems to be a recurring theme for the First Family.

A Heartfelt Nod to Fantastic Four's Rich History

What makes First Steps truly special for longtime fans are its sincere tributes to the franchise's past. Not only does the film feature characters Stan Lee and Jack Kirby—the legendary creators themselves, portrayed by Greg Haiste and Martin Dickinson—witnessing their creations come to life in a poignant scene, but it also reaches further back. Source: [Azat TV, The Fantastic Four: First Steps – A Nostalgic Leap for Marvel’s First Family, Nov 7, 2025].

The movie includes touching cameos from the original cast of Roger Corman's never-released 1994 Fantastic Four film. Alex Hyde-White (Reed Richards), Rebecca Staab (Sue Storm), Jay Underwood (Johnny Storm), and Michael Bailey Smith (Ben Grimm) all make an appearance, acknowledging their part in the legacy.

Producer Grant Curtis, who worked on the MCU's First Steps, specifically noted that the 1994 film, despite its modest $1 million budget and unreleased status, "did a lot of things right... One of the things I think they did extremely well was the character relationships. It holds up." This attention to character over spectacle, a core element of the Corman film, was evidently a key takeaway for the new production.

"Everybody was so close to those characters. I’m the big, strong, protecting guy, right? Kind of innocent and kind of humble. And that’s how Ben Grimm is. But Reed Richards, Alex is a natural leader. Johnny Storm, as you know, is just a bubbly, fiery dude. And Rebecca [Staab, who played Sue Storn] has always been a little shy, reserved, and that’s the invisible woman. So we just did ourselves."

— Michael Bailey Smith, who played Ben Grimm in Roger Corman's 1994 Fantastic Four

The Unbreakable Bonds of Family, Even Under Duress

At its core, the Fantastic Four has always been about family, and First Steps leans into this powerfully. The film throws the team, especially Sue Storm, into an unimaginable situation when facing the world-devouring Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). Galactus demands Franklin, Reed and Sue's unborn child, in exchange for Earth's safety, even inducing Sue into labor during their escape.

This leads to one of the movie's most jarring, yet ultimately understandable, moments. Mid-contractions, Sue fiercely demands of her brother Johnny, "Johnny, kill her. She wants to take your nephew. Kill her!" It’s a line that surprised some viewers, perhaps accustomed to the Fantastic Four’s traditional avoidance of lethal force.

While a Fantastic Four member calling for a kill might initially feel out of character, this scene powerfully demonstrates a mother’s primal instinct. Sue is not just a superhero in that moment; she's a mother-to-be, facing an existential threat to her child. Her demand is a raw, emotional response to an extreme circumstance, highlighting the intense stakes and character depth.

The film truly portrays Sue Storm's unwavering devotion, setting a powerful precedent for her future actions, especially with the later appearance of Doctor Doom.

A Villainous Introduction With Layers: Doctor Doom's Arrival

Speaking of future threats, the mid-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps offers a tantalizing glimpse into the next major antagonist: Doctor Doom. Four years after Galactus’s defeat, Doom appears, interacting with a young Franklin Richards. While initial reactions might immediately brand him as an outright villain set to kidnap the child, a closer look suggests a more nuanced portrayal.

Doom arrives without his mask and converses with Franklin, seemingly attempting to build trust or convey a message rather than simply seizing him. This aligns with the MCU’s track record of complex antagonists, like Thanos, who often believe their destructive actions serve a greater good.

Some might argue that softening Doctor Doom's initial appearance detracts from his classic comic book menace. However, this approach could make him a far more compelling and long-lasting threat in the MCU. A villain driven by a twisted sense of justice, rather than pure evil, often provides richer storytelling and more profound conflicts with heroes like the Fantastic Four.

This nuanced introduction strongly hints that Doom's plans for Avengers: Doomsday (slated for December 18, 2026, with Robert Downey Jr. playing a new MCU character who might be Doom) will be intricate, possibly involving convincing Franklin and even the Fantastic Four that his path is the right one.

The Business of Blockbusters: Box Office vs. Streaming Triumphs

Financially, The Fantastic Four: First Steps garnered a respectable $521 million worldwide against a reported budget of $200 million. While not a "record-breaking box office juggernaut," it performed well enough to avoid being labeled a flop. This solid theatrical run laid the groundwork for its subsequent explosion on streaming platforms. Source: [Collider, Pedro Pascal’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps Is An Instant Streaming Success On Disney+, Nov 8, 2025].

Its phenomenal streaming success, leading viewership charts globally, reinforces the idea that word-of-mouth and critical acclaim can build significant momentum even after a film's initial theatrical run. It’s a powerful reminder that "success" in the modern film landscape isn't solely defined by opening weekend numbers.

Example: Imagine a casual movie fan, let's call her Sarah, who missed First Steps in theaters. She hears a few friends raving about H.E.R.B.I.E., the adorable robot sidekick, or the intense family drama. When it finally hits Disney+ on November 5th, she decides to give it a watch, drawn in by the buzz. She might not have contributed to the opening weekend box office, but her viewership on Disney+ helps cement its "sleeper hit" status, fueling its continued global dominance and encouraging others to check it out.

H.E.R.B.I.E. and Other Standout Supporting Characters

Beyond the core family and looming villains, First Steps also gave us some delightful supporting characters. The Richards family's robotic sidekick, H.E.R.B.I.E., completely stole hearts with his adorable design and surprising emotional depth, particularly in his interactions with Franklin. It’s almost surprising he didn’t become an instant merchandise sensation like Baby Groot or Grogu.

Natasha Lyonne also shined in her brief scenes as Rachel Rozman, showcasing palpable chemistry with Ben Grimm/The Thing. These smaller roles add significant flavor and hint at further character development in future MCU installments, underscoring the film's commitment to rich character work.

Positioning Marvel's First Family for the Multiverse Saga's Future

The decision by Disney+ to place The Fantastic Four: First Steps at the very end of its updated MCU complete timeline is more than a simple chronological adjustment. It’s a strategic move that firmly establishes this film as the definitive entry point for Phase 6 and the broader Multiverse Saga.

This means that even though the film is set in an alternate reality (Earth-828) and has a distinct 1960s period feel, its narrative implications are forward-looking. The Fantastic Four are not just joining the MCU; they are being positioned to lead its next major chapter, with several projects in 2026 expected to build directly on its foundation.

Their rapid evolution and central roles are anticipated in major upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars (December 17, 2027). This strategic timeline placement elevates First Steps from a standalone origin story to a crucial prelude for the biggest events yet to come in the MCU.

Practical Takeaways for Fans

• Watch It Now on Disney+: If you missed it in theaters, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is streaming globally on Disney+ since November 5th, offering a visually stunning and emotionally rich superhero experience.
• Pay Attention to the Timeline: Understand that Disney+ has placed this film strategically at the end of the MCU timeline, signaling its importance as the launchpad for future Multiverse Saga events.
• Look Beyond the Obvious Villain: Doctor Doom's introduction is more complex than it appears; keep an eye on his nuanced motivations as the MCU unfolds.
• Embrace the Retro-Futurism: Enjoy the unique 1960s aesthetic and heartfelt homages to the Fantastic Four's comic book and cinematic history, including the '94 film cast cameos.
• Don't Underestimate the Family: The film's core strength lies in its depiction of the Fantastic Four as a family unit, with all the emotional intensity and protective instincts that come with it.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Q: When did The Fantastic Four: First Steps start streaming on Disney+? A: The film began streaming on Disney+ on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 12 a.m. PT (3 a.m. ET) in the US.

Q: What is the Rotten Tomatoes score for The Fantastic Four: First Steps? A: Critics gave the film an 86% Certified Fresh score, while audiences awarded it an impressive 91% Verified Hot rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Q: Why is The Fantastic Four: First Steps placed at the end of the MCU timeline on Disney+? A: Disney+ has officially slotted the film at the very end of its MCU timeline to emphasize its narrative role as the definitive launching point for the overarching Multiverse Saga and Phase 6, prioritizing future implications over its internal chronological setting.

Q: Who directed The Fantastic Four: First Steps and what is its runtime? A: The film was directed by Matt Shakman, known for WandaVision, and has a runtime of 115 minutes.

Sources

• Collider, "Pedro Pascal’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps Is An Instant Streaming Success On Disney+", November 8, 2025.
• CNET, "'Fantastic Four: First Steps' Streaming on Disney Plus: Release Date and Time", November 4, 2025.
• io9, "Watch the Cast of the Unreleased ‘Fantastic Four’ Movie Take Their Place in Marvel History", November 6, 2025.
• Mint, "Pedro Pascal’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps becomes JioHotstar’s most-watched film after OTT debut", November 8, 2025.
• ScreenRant, "Doctor Doom's Introduction In The Fantastic Four: First Steps Is More Interesting Again On A Rewatch", (No specific date, but context implies recent post-release).
• Azat TV, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps – A Nostalgic Leap for Marvel’s First Family", November 7, 2025.
• TheDirect (via Disney+), "Disney+ reveals MCU timeline with The Fantastic Four: First Steps", November 6, 2025.