Marvel is gearing up for a major resurgence with several upcoming releases, including *Captain America: Brave New World* and *Thunderbolts*. The highly anticipated *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* trailer has been unveiled, showcasing a retro-futuristic aesthetic and a talented cast. However, the release of the film’s poster has sparked controversy over potential generative AI involvement, with critics pointing out discrepancies in its design. Despite the concerns, excitement remains high as the film is set to premiere on July 23, 2025.
Marvel’s Comeback: Exciting Releases Ahead
This year, Marvel is on a mission to reclaim its throne! While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is navigating a mix of triumphs and setbacks, the film release calendar is rapidly gaining momentum. Superhero enthusiasts can look forward to *Captain America: Brave New World* hitting theaters on February 12, followed by *Thunderbolts* on April 30, and most notably, *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* set to premiere on July 23. After a lengthy wait, Disney and Marvel have finally rolled out the first trailer for this highly anticipated film.
The Fantastic Four Trailer Unveiled
Since Disney secured the rights from 20th Century Fox, fans of Marvel have been eagerly anticipating the debut of the X-Men and the Fantastic Four within the MCU. Although the X-Men’s full arrival is still on the horizon (with hints already seen in *Deadpool & Wolverine*), the time has finally come to catch a glimpse of the MCU’s rendition of the Fantastic Four. Previously, it was revealed that *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* would sport a retro-futuristic style inspired by the 1960s, featuring a stellar cast that includes Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm. Now, fans can finally check out the trailer for the film, available to view in our automatic player above.
The film’s aesthetic has already begun to impress fans, marking a refreshing departure from the previously stagnant style that Marvel had been stuck in. The innovative approach reminiscent of series like *Loki* and *WandaVision* injects new life into the franchise. Opinions vary among viewers, with some expressing that the film “looks much better than they anticipated,” while others delve into the trailer’s hints and clues. The primary concern on everyone’s mind is Galactus, who is expected to take center stage as the film’s main antagonist. For those who associate Dr. Doom with the Fantastic Four, fear not; he is set to make his MCU debut, thanks to Robert Downey Jr.’s return in *Avengers: Doomsday*.
Debate Surrounds The First Poster
Despite Marvel’s promising start with the *Fantastic Four: First Steps* trailer, their triumph was short-lived. Accompanying the trailer was the unveiling of the film’s first poster, which has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the potential use of generative AI in its creation.
Upon examining the poster, it’s apparent that there are several indicators suggesting the involvement of generative AI. Observations such as reused faces, oddly proportioned limbs, and peculiar details—like a hand holding a flag with only four fingers—cast doubt on its authenticity. Additionally, the individual in the foreground appears to have their eyes shut in the image. These anomalies suggest a lack of human oversight, which is often a hallmark of AI-generated artwork. However, a Marvel spokesperson assured *The Wrap* that AI was not utilized in crafting this poster. While this statement is hard to accept, the flaws present in the poster highlight either a serious oversight or a questionable approach. Regardless, *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* is slated for release on July 23, 2025, in French cinemas.
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