The long-awaited return of The Fantastic Four to the big screen is almost here. Set to premiere in theaters on July 24, the movie promises to revolutionize how we see these iconic heroes. This time, Marvel Studios is betting on a completely renewed cast and a bold new approach compared to previous versions.

Who stars in The Fantastic Four: First Steps?
Pedro Pascal leads the cast as Reed Richards, Mister Fantastic
Star of The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, Pedro Pascal takes on the role of Reed Richards, the scientist who becomes Mister Fantastic. Known for his range and charisma, Pascal brings a fresh dimension to the team leader, responsible for guiding the group through missions and their adaptation to cosmic powers gained after exposure to cosmic rays.
Vanessa Kirby plays Sue Storm, the powerful Invisible Woman
Known for her performances in The Crown and Pieces of a Woman, Vanessa Kirby brings Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman, to life. The British actress brings strength and balance to the character — one that is far more than just “the hero’s girlfriend,” as previously portrayed. Sue is a vital force within the team’s dynamic.
Kirby’s performance promises to present Sue as an independent and powerful heroine, capable of leading when needed and serving as the group’s emotional core. Her powers of invisibility and force fields make her one of the most versatile characters in the franchise.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Joseph Quinn complete the core team
Joseph Quinn, who won global audiences over as Eddie in Stranger Things, takes on the role of Johnny, the Human Torch. The British actor brings youthful energy and charisma to the group’s impulsive member, known for his flames and explosive personality.
Meanwhile, Ebon Moss-Bachrach plays Ben Grimm, who transforms into The Thing after a fateful space mission. The actor, who previously appeared in the Marvel universe as Microchip in Daredevil, now tackles the challenge of portraying the most emotionally complex member of the team — a mighty hero trapped in a rocky body.
Iconic villains: Julia Garner as Silver Surfer and Ralph Ineson as Galactus
The film doesn’t hold back on cosmic threats. Ralph Ineson has been cast as Galactus, the fearsome Devourer of Worlds, one of the most powerful threats in the Marvel universe. Ineson’s imposing voice is set to bring the villain to life in epic fashion.
Julia Garner, an Emmy winner for Ozark, surprises in the role of a female Silver Surfer, herald of Galactus. This creative decision shows Marvel’s willingness to reimagine classic characters for a new generation of fans.
The supporting cast features major Hollywood names
The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles. While their roles remain under wraps, the caliber of talent suggests each character will carry weight within the story.
Who is directing The Fantastic Four: First Steps?
Behind the camera is Matt Shakman, known for his work on WandaVision. Shakman brings a unique vision that blends science fiction with family drama — exactly what defines the Fantastic Four.
The film is produced by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, along with Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, and Tim Lewis.
An alternate reality
The Fantastic Four: First Steps explores new territory for Marvel Studios. It’s the first movie set in an alternate reality, with no direct ties to the events of Earth-616 (the main MCU timeline).
This approach gives the filmmakers creative freedom. The story places the heroes in a retro-futuristic universe full of advanced technology, space travel, and cosmic phenomena. Its aesthetic blends 1960s nostalgia with futuristic design, offering a unique visual identity unlike anything Marvel has produced before.
Is there a connection to previous Fantastic Four movies?
The Fantastic Four: First Steps has no ties to any previous versions — not the 2005 and 2007 films, nor the 2015 reboot. Marvel Studios built an entirely new narrative, taking the opportunity to portray the characters more faithfully to the original comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
Choosing an alternate universe also allows the characters to have unique origins and arcs, without needing to fit into the existing MCU timeline.