Future Foundation Tease in ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ May Hold the Key to the Movie

Overview

The upcoming film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, signals the return of Marvel’s iconic team to theaters, following the mixed reception of Fant4stic.
This installment features an exceptional cast and teases potential appearances by beloved characters, including Doctor Doom and members of the Future Foundation.
Franklin Richards is anticipated to play a pivotal role, potentially connecting to both Galactus and the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday, showcasing his extraordinary abilities.

Marvel’s First Family is set to make an impactful entrance into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This film aims to revitalize the franchise after its earlier lackluster adaptations. With Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019, this marks the Fantastic Four’s first cinematic appearance since the 2015 failure, Fant4stic. As the MCU gears up for significant future events like Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars, the Fantastic Four are poised to play crucial roles.

Featuring a talented ensemble cast, including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, the movie introduces these superheroes as well as Ralph Ineson as Galactus and Julia Garner as Silver Surfer. Speculations abound regarding Robert Downey Jr.’s possible role as Doctor Doom, while John Malkovich may portray Red Ghost, and Paul Walter Hauser could take on the role of Mole Man. The incorporation of the Future Foundation hints at several exciting characters from the Marvel Comics universe.

Understanding the Future Foundation in Marvel Comics

The Future Foundation made its debut in the 2010 comic book series, Fantastic Four #57. Created by Reed Richards, this group was formed to address the scientific challenges of the future by gathering young, gifted individuals. Unlike the traditional blue uniforms of the Fantastic Four, members of the Future Foundation don distinctive white suits. This initiative followed the temporary loss of the Human Torch, with Spider-Man joining at Johnny Storm’s behest before his tragic demise. While Spider-Man’s return is unlikely, his integral role in the comics is worth noting.

The original lineup of the Future Foundation includes characters such as Zero-G (Alex Power), Dragon Man, and Bentley 23, a clone of the Wizard. Three evolved Moloids named Tong, Turg, Mik, and Korr also joined the ranks, alongside Nathaniel Richards, Reed’s father. Although there’s no confirmation of his involvement in First Steps, his presence remains a potential delight for fans. Interestingly, Doctor Doom has also been associated with the Future Foundation, with circling rumors indicating his important role in this new film. His module led by Nathaniel and Valeria Richards, Reed and Sue’s daughter, suggests intriguing dynamics going forward.

The first teaser for The Fantastic Four: First Steps hinted at the Future Foundation’s involvement, presenting them as the architects behind the rocket mission that leads the Fantastic Four into space. While the film isn’t anticipated to provide a conventional origin narrative, it will delve into their backstory, showcasing their powers gained from a cosmic rays incident. Furthermore, promotional activities have spotlighted the Future Foundation via a dedicated website, enriching the experience with complimentary comic offerings. The dynamics of the lineup await further clarification, but one key figure is rumored to play a significant part.

The Role of Franklin Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Reports suggest that Franklin Richards will be integral to the plot of First Steps. With abilities that allow him to warp reality and even create new universes, his character is uniquely qualified to assist his parents against the formidable Galactus. There are rumors indicating that Galactus will enlist Silver Surfer to bring the Fantastic Four to Earth, where he will demand Franklin’s surrender.

This aligns with recent plot details that suggest a more personal stake in the battle against Galactus:

“Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner).And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.”

The film’s title, First Steps, could hint at Franklin’s involvement, with expectations that he will initially appear as a young child and later be recast for a larger role in Avengers: Doomsday.

Inspired by various comic story arcs, including “Earth X, ”the new film might weave elements from Franklin’s legacy as a pivotal Omega-Level Mutant, cementing his role as one of the MCU’s most formidable characters. Even though pivotal characters may be absent from Avengers: Doomsday, the confirmation of the Fantastic Four’s involvement reassures fans of their eventual prominence within the MCU.

With The Fantastic Four: First Steps featuring a well-established team, their adventures will commence promptly. The narrative places strong emphasis on familial ties, with hints suggesting the arrival of a new family member. Observant viewers have noted alterations in Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm that may indicate a time jump. Speculation surrounds the possibility of a pregnancy storyline that could introduce Franklin, further accentuating his projected future in the franchise. Previous writing endeavors have revealed a focus on both Franklin and Valeria Richards in earlier scripts, suggesting the creative team might reintroduce this compelling dynamic. As the MCU evolves, it seems inevitable that Franklin Richards will soon take center stage.

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