Washington DC [US], April 19: Pedro Pascal is all set to make his Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) debut as Reed Richards (aka Mister Fantastic) in the highly anticipated film The Fantastic Four: First Steps. While fans know Richards as the stretchy superhero, Pascal emphasized that the character is more intellectual than physical.
In an interview with ComicBook, as cited by Deadline, Pascal revealed his deeper interpretation of Reed Richards:
“With Reed, his body may stretch, but this is a brain character,” the Gladiator II actor explained.
He went on to share a quirky inspiration behind his portrayal:
“I thought of the brilliance of an octopus. Not in any literal physical translated way, but I put it into my subconscious,” Pascal added, calling it “the biggest character secret reveal” he’s shared so far.
A Retro Twist to Marvel’s First Family
Marvel recently dropped the official trailer for Fantastic Four: First Steps, revealing a retro-futuristic 1960s Manhattan setting, where the superhero team operates as the sole defenders of Earth.
The main cast includes:
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing
The film will also introduce iconic Marvel villain Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, and Julia Garner as a reimagined Silver Surfer.
MCU’s Official Fantastic Four Debut
The Fantastic Four: First Steps will mark the first full integration of the Fantastic Four into the MCU since Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox. Notably, the film will not feature any crossovers or cameos from other Marvel heroes, making space for the classic team to stand on their own.
Release Date
Fantastic Four: First Steps opens in theatres on July 25, and promises a fresh, cerebral, and stylized take on one of Marvel’s most iconic superhero teams.