The Fantastic Four: Director and Cast Reveal Major Changes to Human Torch and Invisible Woman

Marvel Studios is set to introduce the Fantastic Four to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” but this iteration will be quite different from previous versions. Rather than existing on Earth-616, the team’s story unfolds in an alternate reality version of 1960s New York, fully embracing the Multiverse Saga’s possibilities. In this world, Reed Richards’ genius has made the bold ideas of the era a reality, fundamentally changing the landscape and the team’s dynamic.

Reinventing the 1960s and the Fantastic Four

Director Matt Shakman explained that setting the story on another Earth allowed the creative team to reimagine the 1960s. Instead of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin being the first to walk on the moon, it’s Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben who are the true pioneers of space exploration in this universe. This shift sets the stage for a fresh take on Marvel’s First Family.

“We knew that we’d be on another Earth, so we had a chance to reinvent what the ’60s looked like,” Shakman told Entertainment Weekly. “I was really interested in imagining the Fantastic Four being astronauts. Instead of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin going to the moon, what if it was Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben who were really the first to go into outer space, the first to push those boundaries?”

A New Human Torch: Johnny Storm

This version of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, is markedly different from his previous portrayals. Joseph Quinn, who plays Johnny, discussed how the character has evolved with the times. The reckless, womanizing persona of the past has been left behind, replaced by a more self-aware and emotionally intelligent character.

“He’s a man that leads with a lot of bravado, which can be an affront sometimes. But also he’s funny,” Quinn said. “Myself and [Marvel Studios boss] Kevin [Feige] were speaking about previous iterations of him and where we are culturally. He was branded as this womanizing, devil-may-care guy, but is that sexy these days? I don’t think so. This version of Johnny is less callous with other people’s feelings, and hopefully there’s a self-awareness about what’s driving that attention-seeking behavior.”

Director Shakman added that Johnny’s intelligence is often overlooked. He’s on the spaceship for a reason and, despite his humor, is one of the most heroic members of the team. His relationship with his sister Sue is also emphasized, highlighting that they are “cut from similar cloth.”

A Reimagined Invisible Woman: Sue Storm

Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman, has also undergone significant changes for the film adaptation. In this universe, Sue has played a key role in achieving global demilitarization and peace. Shakman describes her as “the most emotionally intelligent person on the planet” and, together with Reed, she is building an idealistic society.

Vanessa Kirby, who portrays Sue, spoke about the unique aspects of playing a pregnant superhero and her deep dive into the character’s comic history. She referenced Sue’s darker alter-ego, Malice-a manifestation of her negative emotions brought out by Psycho-Man after a traumatic miscarriage.

“Matt and I were really aware that there hasn’t really been a mother with a baby in these superhero archetypes women have been getting,” Kirby explained. “One of the things I love most from Sue’s history is when she becomes Malice, and all her dark stuff comes out. I was obsessed with that chapter of her life. So I wanted to make sure that there were tones of Malice in there with her, that she wasn’t just the stereotype of a goody, sweet mother.”

Kirby emphasized the complexity of femininity and motherhood, wanting to portray Sue as both a powerful superhero and a real, flawed human being. She describes the Fantastic Four as a “messy family who argue and try to work it out and get things wrong,” grounding the characters in relatable human experiences.

Release and Anticipation

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 25, 2025. The film stars a cast of acclaimed actors and promises to bring a fresh perspective to Marvel’s First Family, set against the backdrop of a reimagined 1960s and featuring the cosmic threat of the Devourer of Worlds.

New stills from the movie have been released, offering fans a glimpse of the unique visual style and character dynamics that will define this new chapter in the MCU.

Summary:
Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces significant changes to both the Human Torch and Invisible Woman, moving away from outdated characterizations and focusing on emotional intelligence, complexity, and a reimagined alternate reality. The film aims to present the Fantastic Four as pioneers, both in space and in storytelling, when it premieres in July 2025.