Matt Shakman, Fantastic Four and First Steps
Digest more
The new "Fantastic Four" is now in theaters and earning stellar reviews. Here's when the Marvel hit will likely stream on Disney+ and digital, so you can watch it at home.
Pedro Pascal is the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, but he is not the new leader of the Avengers. At least that’s what the actor says… for now.
1d
Winter is Coming on MSNThe Fantastic Four: First Steps review: No need to feel blue for the MCUAt the core of First Steps are Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Reed Richards, Sue and Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm. Each slips easily into their role like a customized astronaut suit, but special praise has to go to Kirby and Moss-Bacharach for giving the ensemble its real heart.
First Steps director Matt Shakman was discreet when questioned about Robert Downey Jr.’s role in the post-credits scene, choosing not to reveal any details and leaving the discussion to fans.
First Steps director Matt Shakman addresses a big Sue Storm moment in the movie's final act and reveals original plans for Franklin Richards' Marvel Cinematic Universe's introduction.
Explore more
The Fantastic Four: First Steps strides into a whole new world within the MCU that's disconnected from any Marvel movie to date. As such, no homework is required to enjoy the film, and there's also "no Easter eggs" to look out for if director Matt Shakman is to be believed.
“He goes from being the nerdy scientist who’s locked away in the lab, to the husband and the father who’d do anything to protect his family, to the guy who’s leading the Avengers. I realized that the version we were building had to have all of those elements.”
Though the Fantastic Four go to the very origins of Marvel Comics, their movie forays have been marked by missteps and disappointments.
1d
Bam Smack Pow on MSNFantastic Four honors Jamie Christopher and Inez Shakman: Dedication explainedDuring the end credits of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, there is also another tribute, simply reading "For Inez Shakman". Inez Shakman is the mother of director Matt Shakman. She sadly passed away on April 3, 2025 at the age of 80.