‘Fantastic Four’ to Feature Reed Richards Protecting a Child across Space

Images: Lucasfilm, Marvel Entertainment

BURBANK–New plot details have emerged about the MCU’s much anticipated Fantastic Four movie, slated for release in 2025. The film will star Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic, a father protecting his child through a long journey in space.

The story will follow Reed (Pascal), a scientist and space explorer, as he stumbles upon a green-skinned alien child during a journey into the Negative Zone. Sensing danger from forces who would exploit the gifted child, Reed takes the child under his wing and names him “Franklin” (Bella Ramsey). Throughout the rest of the movie, Reed and Franklin have various adventures throughout the galaxy, fending off supervillains, zombies, and more on their quest to return safely to Earth.

Another key detail of the film is that Reed will wear a metallic helmet which he never removes. This will make him a clear foil for the Fantastic Four’s longtime nemesis, Dr. Doom (Giancarlo Espositio), who also wears a metal mask which he never removes. “This makes them both look scarier and edgier,” explained Marvel Chief Creative Officer Kevin Feige. “Plus, it’s a lot easier to do stunt doubles this way.”

Some fans have criticized the film’s direction, noting that it’s not entirely faithful to Franklin’s and Reed’s portrayals in the comics. “It’s just too much of a Stretch,” said comics fan John Teller of New York City.

“We’re trying a new approach here–because, let’s face it, every other Fantastic Four movie has sucked,” commented director Matt Shakman. “But everyone at Marvel agreed–down to The Last of Us. Based on a strong performance in Pascal’s previous roles, we’re sure that This Is The Way to go.”

Franklin will be pursued by a powerful cosmic being called Galactus (Gina Carano) and his herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). Since the Surfer is a woman in this adaptation, she most likely just wants to find Franklin so she can hug him, nurse him, and act as the child’s mother figure. Because that’s basically what all women want, right?

The other three members of the Fantastic Four–portrayed by Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, respectively–are also rumored to make cameo appearances in the film. Kirby’s appearance might be so brief that she seems Invisible.

Fantastic Four hits theaters in 2025.

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