The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Where Is Doctor Doom In the New Teaser Trailer?

2025 is a momentous year for Marvel, but no project surpasses the highly anticipated Fantastic Four: First Steps. This Phase 6 MCU opener finally introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his family. Could this be the long-awaited, truly great Fantastic Four film we've been hoping for?

The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and first glimpses of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, one question dominates fan discussions: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

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

Marvel is keeping details close to the chest. The teaser provides no overt hints of Doom's presence, highlighting a different approach than previous Fantastic Four films. Julian McMahon's and Toby Kebbell's Dooms were central villains, but this iteration emphasizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's character.

First Steps must play a role in establishing Doom; he's a primary Fantastic Four villain, and the film precedes Avengers: Doomsday. The film likely needs to tease the next major villain. A key question is Doom's universe of origin. Given the casting choice, he's not from Earth-616. Is he from the First Steps universe, an alternate Tony Stark reality, or another world entirely? Even a post-credits appearance could establish his character and motives.

Regardless of his role, Doom won't be the central focus. The Fantastic Four face much larger, literal problems.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser clearly showcases Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson. Originally appearing in 1966's Fantastic Four #48, Galactus and his herald, Silver Surfer, threaten Earth, forcing the Fantastic Four to take drastic measures.

Marvel's expanded lore details Galactus's past and cosmic role. Once Galan of Taa, he survived the previous universe and evolved into Galactus, consuming planets to sustain himself. He's less a villain and more a cosmic entity fulfilling a cyclical function, though this is little comfort to those whose planets he targets.

First Steps draws inspiration from the classic Galactus Trilogy, depicting an established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge. The film explores the lengths Reed and his family will go to save Earth. Will the Ultimate Nullifier, a multiverse-altering weapon, appear and connect to the Multiverse Saga?

This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer's depiction, presented here in humanoid form, a more developed character rather than a force of nature, justifying Ineson's casting. While Galactus is shown, his herald, Julia Garner's Silver Surfer, isn't prominently featured. Her arc will likely mirror Laurence Fishburne's portrayal: initially Galactus's herald, but rebelling after encountering Earth and recalling her past life on Zenn-La.

Who Is John Malkovich Playing?

While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the main antagonists, John Malkovich's character remains a mystery. One rumor suggests Ivan Kragoff (Red Ghost), a Soviet scientist with three super-powered apes. Malkovich's past roles suggest this is plausible, but the film's approach to this campy origin remains uncertain.

Alternatively, he could be Mole Man, another iconic villain. Shunned for his appearance, he rules the Moloids and seeks to conquer the surface world. Malkovich's appearance suggests a subterranean existence.

Likely, Malkovich plays a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four. Given their established status, a rogues' gallery is expected. Several actors' roles remain unconfirmed (Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, Paul Walter Hauser).

Meet the Fantastic Four

The teaser mainly focuses on 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 with his transformation and Reed's guilt.

The Fantastic Four are established heroes, not origin stories like previous films. However, flashbacks to their origin and the accident granting them powers are included. The costumes differ significantly from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic rather than traditional superhero attire.

Marketing highlights the Future Foundation, suggesting the presence of younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The "First Steps" title hints at parenthood themes. Franklin's immense power might be connected to Galactus's targeting of Earth.

Fantastic Four: First Steps arrives in theaters July 25, 2025.

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