The Fantastic Four: First Steps Introduces Galactus

The upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe film, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps,' directed by Matt Shakman, distinguishes itself from previous adaptations by featuring Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, as the main villain instead of the traditional Doctor Doom. Set in an alternate 1960s retro-futurist universe, the film focuses on the origin story of the Fantastic Four without including other Marvel heroes or cameos, offering a fresh perspective. Shakman's creative vision draws inspiration from Stanley Kubrick, emphasizing practical effects and a retro-futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of the Silver Age of comics. The film aims to reintroduce Marvel's first family—Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm—through a nostalgic lens, with a storyline that does not intersect with the main MCU timeline initially. Despite this, the Fantastic Four are expected to join the larger MCU in future films, including 'Avengers: Doomsday,' where they will encounter Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom. The film is highly anticipated for its focus on character-driven storytelling, aiming to reinvigorate the MCU's approach to superhero narratives.