Unveiling The Fantastic Four: First Steps Plot: Matt Shakman’s Comic Book Inspirations Revealed

Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps is gearing up to be a cosmic game-changer, and director Matt Shakman has dropped tantalizing hints about the comic books shaping its narrative.

With a retro-futuristic 1960s setting and a focus on Marvel’s First Family, the film promises to dive deep into the source material. This article explores Shakman’s revealed comic book influences, what they suggest about The Fantastic Four: First Steps plot, and how these stories might shape the MCU’s next big adventure.

What Comics Did Matt Shakman Highlight for The Fantastic Four: First Steps?

Matt Shakman, known for helming WandaVision, has repeatedly emphasized his love for Fantastic Four comics, particularly Jonathan Hickman’s iconic run in Fantastic Four: Solve Everything (issues #570–588, published 2009–2011).

In a foreword for Marvel’s Premiere Collection release, Shakman praised Hickman’s work for its humor, heart, and deep family dynamics, noting it as a primary influence. He also cited influences from classic runs by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, as well as later works by John Byrne, Mark Waid, and Matt Fraction.

Additionally, Shakman highlighted specific elements from Hickman’s run, such as the Future Foundation, the multiverse portal known as the Bridge, and the interdimensional Council of Reeds. These references provide clues about the thematic and narrative direction of the film.

How Does Jonathan Hickman’s Run Shape The Fantastic Four: First Steps Plot?

Hickman’s Fantastic Four: Solve Everything follows Reed Richards’ ambitious quest to “solve everything,” tackling global problems through science and intellect. The story introduces the Future Foundation, a philanthropic organization led by Reed and Sue Storm, and explores multiversal concepts like the Council of Reeds—a group of alternate-universe Reed Richards collaborating across dimensions.

Shakman’s admiration for these elements suggests The Fantastic Four: First Steps plot may center on Reed’s intellectual drive and the family’s role as protectors of a retro-futuristic Earth.

The inclusion of Galactus and the Silver Surfer (Shalla-Bal version) in the film aligns with Hickman’s cosmic scope, where the Fantastic Four face universe-threatening foes like Annihilus. Shakman’s mention of “heroic standoffs” against such villains hints at a high-stakes conflict, possibly involving Galactus’ planet-devouring ambitions.

What Role Does the Future Foundation Play in the Film?

The Future Foundation, a Hickman creation, is a think-tank led by Reed and Sue to advance human progress. In the comics, Sue heads the organization, achieving global demilitarization and peace.

Shakman’s nod to this concept, combined with Vanessa Kirby’s portrayal of Sue as “the most emotionally intelligent person” on the planet, suggests the Future Foundation could be central to The Fantastic Four: First Steps plot.

The film may depict Sue as a diplomatic leader, balancing motherhood (as she’s pregnant in the story) with global responsibilities, while Reed’s inventions drive the retro-futuristic aesthetic.

Could the Council of Reeds and the Bridge Hint at Multiversal Elements?

Shakman’s fascination with the Council of Reeds and the Bridge—a multiverse portal—raises intriguing possibilities for multiversal storytelling. The Council features alternate Reeds working together, which could tie into the MCU’s Multiverse Saga, especially with Avengers: Secret Wars on the horizon.

While Shakman stated the Fantastic Four exist in a universe with “no other heroes,” the Bridge might allow cross-dimensional threats or cameos, such as John Krasinski’s Reed Richards from Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as a Council member. This could expand The Fantastic Four: First Steps plot into a multiversal epic.

How Do Classic Comics Influence the Film’s Tone and Setting?

Beyond Hickman, Shakman drew inspiration from Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s 1960s Fantastic Four comics, which birthed the team during the space race. This influence is evident in the film’s retro-futuristic 1960s setting, described as a blend of The Jetsons and 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Shakman’s focus on the era’s optimism and exploration suggests The Fantastic Four: First Steps plot will capture the wonder of space travel, with the team—Reed (Pedro Pascal), Sue (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny (Joseph Quinn), and Ben (Ebon Moss-Bachrach)—embarking on a mission akin to Apollo 11, facing cosmic threats like Galactus (Ralph Ineson).

Shakman also praised Mark Waid’s run for its character focus, particularly Johnny’s need for respect and Ben’s gentle nature. This indicates the film will balance cosmic action with grounded family dynamics, a hallmark of the Fantastic Four legacy.

What Can We Expect from the Film’s Villains and Conflicts?

The confirmed presence of Galactus and the Silver Surfer points to a cosmic showdown inspired by both Hickman’s epic battles and Lee/Kirby’s Galactus Trilogy. Shakman’s reference to Annihilus in Hickman’s run suggests the Negative Zone, a parallel dimension, could play a role, potentially as a source of conflict or a setting for the team’s adventures.

The film’s synopsis describes the Fantastic Four protecting their world from Galactus, hinting at a narrative where Reed’s intellect and the team’s unity are tested against a “14-billion-year-old, planet-devouring cosmic vampire.”

Why Does Shakman’s Approach Matter for the MCU?

Shakman’s commitment to the comics sets The Fantastic Four: First Steps apart from previous adaptations, which he admitted to avoiding. His practical approach—using real sets, miniatures, and a physical Galactus costume—aims to ground the fantastical in reality, enhancing the film’s visual authenticity.

By drawing from Hickman’s cerebral storytelling and the 1960s’ optimistic spirit, Shakman is poised to deliver a fresh take on Marvel’s First Family, potentially redefining their place in the MCU.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be a love letter to the comics, with Matt Shakman’s influences—Jonathan Hickman’s Solve Everything, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s classics, and more—offering a roadmap for its plot.

From the Future Foundation’s global impact to potential multiversal twists, the film promises a blend of cosmic spectacle and heartfelt family dynamics.

As we await its July 25, 2025, release, diving into these comics will prepare fans for a thrilling ride.

What do you think of Shakman’s comic-inspired vision? Share your thoughts below!