'Fantastic Four': Doom's Absence in Teaser Raises Intrigue

The highly anticipated Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to launch Phase 6 of the MCU, finally introducing Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and his family to the big screen. 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?

Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer Stills

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Doctor Doom's Absence

Marvel's announcement at San Diego Comic-Con that Robert Downey Jr. would portray Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday surprised many. The teaser trailer, however, offers no clear indication of Doom's presence, suggesting a different approach compared to previous Fantastic Four films. While previous iterations featured Doom as a central antagonist, First Steps seems to prioritize Galactus and Silver Surfer.

It's highly probable that First Steps will play a role in establishing Doom, given his connection to the Fantastic Four and the film's proximity to 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 could significantly impact the narrative.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser highlights Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson, as the primary antagonist. The film seems inspired by the classic "Galactus Trilogy," depicting the established Fantastic Four facing their greatest challenge. The scale of this threat raises questions about the lengths Reed Richards will go to save Earth, potentially involving the Ultimate Nullifier. This portrayal of Galactus appears more character-driven than in previous adaptations, unlike the hurricane-like depiction in Rise of the Silver Surfer.

Julia Garner's Silver Surfer, a gender-swapped version, is also expected to follow a similar arc to previous portrayals, beginning as Galactus' herald before rebelling.

John Malkovich's Role

Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character remains a mystery. Speculation points towards either Ivan Kragoff (Red Ghost) or Mole Man, both classic Fantastic Four villains. His appearance suggests a secondary antagonist who will clash with the team early in the film. Other unconfirmed cast members, including Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser, add further intrigue.

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. The emphasis on their family dynamic suggests a focus on Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt.

The costumes are notably different from previous adaptations, reminiscent of John Byrne's classic comics, emphasizing their scientific and adventurous nature. The inclusion of the Future Foundation in marketing hints at the possibility of younger heroes, potentially including Franklin Richards, appearing in the film.

Fantastic Four: First Steps promises a unique take on the classic team, blending family drama with a cosmic-scale threat. The mystery surrounding Doctor Doom's role only adds to the anticipation.