Fans of Marvel's First Family have eagerly awaited any glimpse of the upcoming “Fantastic Four: First Steps,” and the recent release of footage featuring Ebon Moss-Bachrach as The Thing has certainly ramped up the excitement. Directed by Matt Shakman, this reboot aims to offer a fresh take on the beloved superhero team while staying true to the essence that made the original comics and past films iconic.
In the 2005 “Fantastic Four” film, Michael Chiklis' portrayal of Ben Grimm, a.k.a. The Thing, was accomplished through a practical effects suit that gave a tangible, if somewhat stiff, representation of the rocky superhero. A decade later, Jamie Bell's 2015 portrayal took a different route, relying entirely on CGI to bring the character to life. Now, Marvel Studios seems to be blending the best of both worlds with Moss-Bachrach's interpretation, using advanced motion capture and digital effects to create a more dynamic and expressive version of The Thing.
The footage, though not the final cut, reveals a rough version of The Thing, possibly with Moss-Bachrach in a stand-in suit or using makeup for reference. This has sparked speculation among fans, especially after Moss-Bachrach hinted during a Jimmy Kimmel Live interview that his portrayal would likely lean heavily on CGI rather than practical effects.
What's clear from the footage is the production's commitment to crafting a visually striking version of The Thing that aligns with the character's comic book roots. The cast surrounding Moss-Bachrach is just as exciting, with Pedro Pascal taking on the role of Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman, and Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch. Adding further anticipation, Ralph Ineson will bring the cosmic menace Galactus to life, alongside Julia Garner as Silver Surfer.
As we await the film's release on July 25th, 2025, this early look at The Thing has fans buzzing about what Shakman and his team have in store for Marvel's iconic superhero family. With such a star-studded cast and cutting-edge effects, “Fantastic Four: First Steps” promises to be a monumental entry into the MCU.
