Marvel Reveals First Teaser For The Fantastic Four: What's Up With Doctor Doom?

2025 marks a pivotal year for Marvel, with The Fantastic Four: First Steps standing as a highly anticipated cornerstone of Phase 6. This film not only launches Phase 6 but also introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his iconic family. The long wait for a truly exceptional Fantastic Four film may finally be over.

The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the Fantastic Four and provides our first glimpse of antagonists, including Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's enigmatic character. However, a burning question remains for many fans: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's analyze the trailer's reveals and omissions.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

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Doctor Doom's Absence

Marvel's announcement at San Diego Comic-Con that The Avengers 5 (renamed The Avengers: Doomsday) would feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom was surprising. Fans are naturally curious about the Fantastic Four film's role in establishing Doom as a major Avengers-level threat.

Marvel is keeping details close to the chest. The teaser doesn't explicitly hint at Doom's presence, highlighting a different approach compared to previous Fantastic Four adaptations. Unlike previous iterations where Doom was a central antagonist, this film prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's mystery role.

First Steps will likely play a role in introducing Doom, given his connection to the Fantastic Four and the film's release preceding Avengers: Doomsday. The key question is Doom's origin. Given the casting choice, he's unlikely from Earth-616. Is he from the First Steps universe, an alternate Tony Stark's reality, or another universe entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would clarify his role and motives.

Regardless, Doom won't be the central focus; the Fantastic Four face a far greater, literal threat.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser clearly establishes Galactus as the primary antagonist, voiced by Ralph Ineson. This classic Marvel character, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, debuted in 1966's Fantastic Four #48, beginning the "Galactus Trilogy."

The film appears inspired by this classic storyline, depicting an established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge. The extent of Reed's efforts to save Earth remains to be seen. Will the Ultimate Nullifier appear, and how does it connect to the Multiverse Saga?

This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer, presented here in humanoid form rather than as a force of nature. Ineson's casting suggests a more developed character.

While Galactus is shown, his herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. Her arc will likely mirror the classic storyline, initially serving Galactus before rebelling.

John Malkovich's Role

Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main antagonists, but John Malkovich's character adds another layer. Speculation points towards Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man. Malkovich's past roles and the character's appearance suggest either is plausible. He's likely a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four.

The roles of Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser remain unconfirmed, adding further intrigue.

Introducing the Fantastic Four

The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn's Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach's Ben Grimm, along with H.E.R.B.I.E.

The film emphasizes their familial bond, highlighting Ben's struggle and Reed's guilt. The Fantastic Four are established heroes, though flashbacks to their origin are hinted at.

The costumes differ significantly from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic. The Future Foundation's prominence in marketing suggests the appearance of younger heroes, potentially including Franklin Richards.

First Steps will likely explore parenthood and the challenges of raising children. Franklin's potential role in Galactus' attack on Earth is a compelling question.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps releases July 25, 2025.