Marvel’s First Family is stepping into the spotlight like never before. With The Fantastic Four: First Steps hitting theaters on July 25, 2025, Marvel Comics and Marvel Studios have joined forces to create a unique comic book tie-in that bridges the gap between the printed page and the silver screen. This one-shot comic, set to release on July 2, 2025, marks a historic collaboration, offering fans a fresh perspective on the Fantastic Four’s world within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting project, from its creative team to its significance for Marvel fans. This news comes from a Deadline exclusive.
Why This Comic Is A Big Deal With New Details About The Film
The Fantastic Four: First Steps comic isn’t just another tie-in. It’s a carefully crafted artifact designed to immerse readers in the MCU’s vision of Marvel’s First Family. Here’s why it stands out:
- First-Ever Collaboration: For the first time, Marvel Comics and Marvel Studios have worked hand-in-hand to create a comic set directly in the world of an MCU film. This isn’t a loose adaptation but a story that feels like it belongs in the movie’s universe.
- Not an Origin Story: The comic confirms that First Steps picks up four years after the Fantastic Four gain their powers, skipping the familiar origin tale for a more seasoned take on the team.
- Ties to the Film’s Aesthetic: Marvel Comics collaborated with the film’s production team, including production designer Kasra Farahani, to capture the tone and visual style of the movie, ensuring a seamless connection.
This comic is more than a promotional gimmick—it’s a celebration of the Fantastic Four’s legacy, blending the emotional depth of comics with the cinematic grandeur of the MCU.
The Creative Team Behind the Comic
| Role | Creator | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Writer | Matt Fraction | Hawkeye, Fantastic Four |
| Artist | Mark Buckingham | Fables, Fantastic Four |
| Cover Artist | Phil Noto | Various Marvel titles |
| Publisher | Future Foundation | Specialty Marvel imprint |
- Matt Fraction’s Storytelling: Known for his character-driven narratives, Fraction brings his deep understanding of the Fantastic Four to craft a story that balances cosmic adventure with human drama.
- Mark Buckingham’s Art: Buckingham’s detailed, expressive style is perfect for capturing the retro-futuristic vibe of the First Steps film, making every panel feel alive.
- Phil Noto’s Cover: Noto’s sleek, evocative cover art sets the tone, offering a visual tease of the comic’s connection to the movie’s aesthetic.
This dream team ensures the comic is both a love letter to longtime fans and an accessible entry point for newcomers drawn in by the film.
What to Expect from the Story
While specific plot details are under wraps, here’s what we know about the Fantastic Four: First Steps one-shot:
- Set in the MCU: The comic is designed as an “in-world” artifact, meaning it exists within the same reality as the First Steps film. Expect references to the movie’s retro-futuristic 1960s-inspired setting.
- Four Years In: The story takes place four years after Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm became the Fantastic Four, allowing for a focus on their established dynamics and challenges.
- Emotional Core: Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski emphasized the Fantastic Four’s role as Marvel’s First Family, promising a story that highlights their familial bond and relatable struggles.
- Teases for the Film: The comic confirms fan speculations, such as the non-origin focus, and may drop hints about the movie’s plot, including the looming threat of Galactus and the Silver Surfer.
Fans can expect a standalone tale that complements the film without spoiling its biggest moments, offering a deeper dive into the Fantastic Four’s world.
How It Fits into Marvel’s Bigger Plans
The Fantastic Four: First Steps comic is just one piece of a larger strategy to reintroduce Marvel’s First Family to a global audience. Here’s how it connects to other Marvel initiatives:
- The MCU Film: Directed by Matt Shakman and starring Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm), the film kicks off Phase Six of the MCU. It’s set in a parallel 1960s-inspired universe, facing off against Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and Silver Surfer (Julia Garner).
- Disney Parks Integration: At SXSW, Disney announced that the Fantastic Four will appear as characters in Tomorrowland at Disneyland, bringing their presence to life beyond the screen.
- Comic Book Momentum: Alongside the tie-in, Marvel Comics is relaunching the Fantastic Four series with a new #1 in July 2025, written by Ryan North and illustrated by Humberto Ramos, tying into the “One World Under Doom” crossover event.
This multi-platform approach underscores the Fantastic Four’s significance as the team that launched the Marvel Era in 1961, setting the stage for their triumphant return.
Why Fans Should Be Excited
For longtime readers and new fans alike, the Fantastic Four: First Steps comic offers something special:
- A Fresh Take: By skipping the origin story, the comic and film dive into a more mature Fantastic Four, exploring their growth as heroes and a family.
- Creative Synergy: The collaboration between Marvel’s comics and film divisions promises a cohesive experience that respects the source material while embracing the MCU’s cinematic flair.
- A Nod to History: The Fantastic Four’s 1961 debut by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby revolutionized comics with its focus on flawed, relatable heroes. This comic honors that legacy while pushing the team into new territory.
As C.B. Cebulski put it, “The heart of Marvel has always stemmed from the comics, and Kevin [Feige] and the team have been bringing those pages to life in extraordinary ways.” This comic is a testament to that shared passion.
Where to Get It
The Fantastic Four: First Steps one-shot hits comic shops and digital platforms on July 2, 2025, just weeks before the film’s release. Here’s how to grab a copy:
- Local Comic Shops: Visit your nearest store or use ComicShopLocator.com to find one. Pre-order to secure your copy, as this one-shot is likely to sell out.
- Digital Platforms: Available on Marvel Unlimited and other digital comic apps, perfect for readers who prefer e-versions.
- Collector’s Editions: Keep an eye out for potential variant covers or special editions, as Marvel often releases exclusive versions for major releases.
Mark your calendars and get ready to dive into the Fantastic Four’s next chapter.
Final Thoughts
The Fantastic Four: First Steps comic is more than a tie-in—it’s a bold step toward uniting Marvel’s comic and cinematic universes in a way fans have never seen. With a stellar creative team, a story rooted in the MCU, and a deep respect for the Fantastic Four’s legacy, this one-shot is poised to be a must-read for anyone excited about Marvel’s First Family. Whether you’re a die-hard comic fan or a moviegoer curious about the Fantastic Four’s world, this comic promises to deliver adventure, heart, and a glimpse into the future of Marvel storytelling.
