From Empire
Marvel’s upcoming film Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be a bold blend of retro inspiration and cosmic storytelling. According to fresh details from Empire, the movie draws heavily from the 1960s Space Race era, infusing it with a distinct Stanley Kubrick-esque flair. Directed by Matt Shakman, known for his work on WandaVision, this reboot aims to reintroduce Marvel’s First Family with a period-specific twist that sets it apart from the modern-day settings of most MCU entries.
The film’s aesthetic and tone take cues from the optimism and ambition of the Space Race, a time when humanity’s gaze turned skyward in a mix of competition and wonder. Think sleek, vintage designs paired with the boundless curiosity of the era—rocket ships, bold exploration, and a sense of discovery that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Shakman has hinted that the movie will lean into this historical vibe while still delivering the superhero spectacle fans expect. The result? A visual and narrative style that echoes the grandeur of Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, with its meticulous attention to space exploration and a touch of existential awe.
The cast is another highlight, bringing fresh faces to the iconic quartet. Pedro Pascal steps into the role of Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), the stretchy genius leading the team. Vanessa Kirby portrays Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), whose strength and invisibility anchor the group. Joseph Quinn takes on Johnny Storm (Human Torch), the fiery hothead, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach embodies Ben Grimm (The Thing), the rock-skinned powerhouse. Together, they’ll face off against a cosmic threat in the form of Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, with Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer, reimagined here as a herald with a feminine edge.
Set photos teased by Empire reveal a 1960s-inspired world, complete with period-appropriate costumes and tech. The team’s suits reflect the era’s utilitarian yet futuristic optimism, think less spandex, more astronaut chic. Meanwhile, the looming presence of Galactus promises a stakes raising showdown that could dwarf even the grandest moments of the Space Race itself.
Shakman’s vision seems to balance this retro foundation with Marvel’s signature wit and action. The Kubrick influence doesn’t just stop at visuals; it’s about capturing that sense of humanity confronting the unknown. The Fantastic Four’s journey born from a cosmic mishap mirrors the real-world risks and triumphs of the 1960s space missions, grounding their superheroics in a relatable, human context.
Slated for release on July 25, 2025, Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to launch the team into the MCU with a fresh yet reverent take. By rooting the story in a pivotal moment of history and infusing it with cinematic homage, Marvel might just redefine its First Family for a new generation proving that even in a universe of gods and multiverses, there’s still room for a little old-school wonder.
