Marvel Studios has officially addressed and refuted recent online speculation regarding the creation of the promotional poster for their upcoming film, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” The studio clarified that artificial intelligence (AI) was not utilized in the poster’s design, despite observations from fans noting peculiarities such as two women appearing to share the same face and some individuals depicted with an unusual number of fingers. A representative from Marvel Studios confirmed to Deadline that AI was not involved in the poster’s creation.
Background on AI Usage in Marvel Projects
This clarification comes in the wake of Marvel Studios’ previous engagement with AI-generated content. Notably, the studio employed AI to craft the opening sequence of its Disney+ series “Secret Invasion,” a creative decision that aligned with the show’s narrative centered on shape-shifting alien Skrulls infiltrating Earth. The use of AI in that context was intended to reflect the series’ themes of transformation and deception.
Unveiling of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’
The promotional poster in question was released in conjunction with the debut of the film’s first teaser trailer, offering audiences an initial glimpse into Marvel’s latest reboot of the iconic superhero team. Set against a retro-futuristic 1960s backdrop during the space race, the film introduces a star-studded cast:
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic: The brilliant scientist with the ability to stretch his body to incredible lengths and shapes.
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman: Reed’s wife, who possesses the power to become invisible and generate force fields.
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch: Sue’s younger brother, capable of engulfing his body in flames and flying.
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing: A close family friend transformed into a super-strong, rock-like creature.
The narrative centers on the team’s mission to defend Earth from the cosmic entity Galactus, portrayed by Ralph Ineson, with Julia Garner taking on the role of the Silver Surfer, Galactus’s enigmatic herald.
Directorial Vision and Narrative Approach
Helmed by director Matt Shakman, renowned for his work on “WandaVision,” the film takes a distinctive approach by opting not to retell the team’s origin story. Instead, it immerses the characters in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, offering a fresh narrative that honors the team’s rich history while providing audiences with a novel experience. Shakman emphasized this creative choice, stating, “One of the ways we’re making it our own thing is we’re not telling the story of them going up and being changed… We thought, ‘Well, let’s just start this thing off on a completely new foot.'”
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is slated for a theatrical release on July 25, 2025. As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to a blend of nostalgic elements and contemporary storytelling, marking the team’s integration into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film aims to capture the essence of Marvel’s “First Family” while introducing them to a new generation of viewers.
