Matt Shakman Teases The Fantastic Four: First Steps as a Retro Sci-Fi Marvel Epic

Marvel fans, get ready for a cosmic ride with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, a Matt Shakman directorial coming soon to cinemas near you. In recent chats, Shakman has shared juicy tidbits about what’s in store for this July 25, 2025 release, hinting at a plot rooted in 1960s optimism, a Kubrick-inspired feel, and a vibe that’s equal parts nostalgic and groundbreaking.

Matt Shakman’s vision for The Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to reintroduce Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm in a way that’s unlike any MCU film we’ve seen. Let’s unpack everything he’s revealed so far!

What Can We Expect from the Plot?

Matt Shakman has kept the full storyline under wraps, but he’s dropped some intriguing clues about The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Don’t expect a typical origin story—the team is already together when the film begins. Drawing from the 1960s Space Race, Shakman told Empire Magazine, “It’s about JFK and optimism,” imagining the Fantastic Four as celebrated astronauts who ventured into space instead of Apollo 11’s crew.

This setup casts Reed (Pedro Pascal), Sue (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny (Joseph Quinn), and Ben (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as national heroes first, with their powers amplifying their explorer legacy. It’s a fresh twist that blends real-world history with Marvel magic, and Shakman’s passion for this angle shines through.

How Will the Film Feel on Screen?

When it comes to the tone, Matt Shakman is channeling a sci-fi legend for The Fantastic Four: First Steps. “I really wanted it to feel like it was made in 1965, the way Stanley Kubrick would have made it,” he shared with Empire. Think 2001: A Space Odyssey meets Marvel—a deliberate, atmospheric take on space exploration.

Shakman’s keeping it “grounded,” avoiding wild cosmic gimmicks like wormholes. The team’s tech leans retro-future, with booster rockets and practical designs that scream ‘60s innovation. “It’s a combination of Marvel and Apollo 11,” he said, hinting at a mix of awe-inspiring adventure and heartfelt character moments.

What Sets the Vibe Apart?

Matt Shakman’s approach to The Fantastic Four: First Steps is all about standing out. “We are our own universe,” he declared, nixing MCU cameos from the likes of Iron Man or Spider-Man. This standalone vibe is “wonderful and liberating,” letting the Fantastic Four shine on their own terms.

He’s doubling down on authenticity, using vintage lenses, practical sets, and even a 14-foot miniature spaceship. This retro-futuristic flair, paired with a focus on the team’s family dynamic, crafts a distinct atmosphere that feels both timeless and new—a bold move for Marvel’s First Family.

Why Is This a Fresh Take for the MCU?

Unlike the multiverse-heavy MCU films of late, Matt Shakman is carving a unique path with The Fantastic Four: First Steps. “There are no other superheroes” in this world, he confirmed, giving the story room to breathe without the usual crossover clutter.

While it’ll eventually tie into the MCU—likely via Avengers: Doomsday—for now, it’s a self-contained tale of astronauts turned heroes. This departure from the interconnected norm could be just what fans need: a focused, character-driven adventure that honors its roots while pushing forward.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Matt Shakman’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be a thrilling blend of retro sci-fi and Marvel heroism.

With a plot tied to the Space Race, a Kubrick-esque feel, and a vibe that’s proudly standalone, Shakman is giving us a fresh take on Marvel’s First Family.

As July 2025 nears, the excitement is building—will this be the MCU’s next big win? We can’t wait to find out!