Summary

  • MCU's Fantastic Four: First Steps filmed in the U.K., features retro-futuristic style, new costumes.
  • Joseph Quinn spotted in full Human Torch costume, signaling departure from classic look.
  • Physical suits likely for most team members, including The Thing, distinguishing it from CGI-heavy Marvel films.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the MCU’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps. As the wait drags on, production has been steadily progressing, with new updates slowly surfacing. Now, we’ve got a sneak peek at a key character suiting up in their full costume, sparking even more excitement.

The highly anticipated MCU Fantastic Four project with a new title, First Steps, is now in production in the U.K., after its exciting tease at this year's San Diego Comic-Con. Unlike past versions of Marvel's first family, First Steps takes place in a unique, retro-futuristic timeline within the expansive MCU multiverse. This fresh direction is already shining through in the film's art style, with the iconic superhero team donning striking new costumes that fans have never seen before.

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The Fantastic Four: First Steps is currently filming at the stunning Durdle Door in Dorset, England—a popular backdrop for numerous TV shows and films like The Sandman, Wonka, and Doctor Who (the spot where Jodie Whittaker's Doctor transformed into David Tennant). During the ongoing shoot, Joseph Quinn was seen on set in full costume as the MCU’S Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, with new photos surfacing on Reddit. The images show Johnny wandering alone along the beach, pausing pensively by the shore as the waves roll in. It’s unclear whether this scene is meant to represent the UK or if Durdle Door is standing in for some alien world. While it's tough to confirm if it's really Quinn in the suit, the throwback-style costume aligns with previous leaks. This updated look ditches the classic blue jumpsuit for a retro vibe that’s straight out of a '60s sci-fi show—or maybe just the underlayer of a space suit. Either way, it's a bold move signaling Marvel Studios’ intent to break away from earlier live-action takes on the Fantastic Four.

Marvel's First Family is set to make their costumed debut soon, with more members being spotted on set in the coming weeks. So far, the only other team member spotted is The Thing, brought to life with a practical costume. Recent Marvel Studios films have leaned heavily on CGI over practical costumes, but Fantastic Four: First Steps might break that trend, as hinted by the latest look at the Human Torch. While a physical stand-in for The Thing was used during filming, the character will ultimately be realized through CGI and motion capture. However, most of the team is expected to don real, wearable suits—at least when not using their powers. Since Matt Shakman, known for WandaVision and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, took the director's chair, it's been hinted that this Fantastic Four adaptation will stand apart from its predecessors. The film explores a new spin on the Fantastic Four’s origins, featuring a futuristic yet retro alternate universe. Promotional materials hint at a time warp back to the 1960s, where this iconic superhero team doubles as a close-knit family.

Quinn steps into the flame-filled legacy of previous Human Torches, following in the footsteps of Chris Evans from the original movies, Fantastic Four and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, as well as Michael B. Jordan from the 2015 reboot. Reflecting on this lineage, Quinn acknowledges the significance of the role, noting the impressive portrayals by his predecessors. He emphasizes the importance of honoring their work while also making the character uniquely his own. Quinn also shared insights about his preparation earlier this year, highlighting his training journey in collaboration with a fantastic trainer named Tim, who pushes him out of his comfort zone. He’s focusing on achieving the right look rather than a dramatic muscular physique, and he’s making steady progress in preparation for the role.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025.

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Source: Reddit