The official casting announcement is the main development regarding the upcoming Fantastic Four movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In February 2024, Marvel announced the cast on social media, tagging “Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn as The Fantastic Four.” Furthermore, a change in release dates was announced by Deadline in February 2024: Thunderbolts will arrive on May 2, 2025, while the Fantastic Four film will now be released on July 25, 2025.

As for the plot, little has been revealed except for the setting: the Life magazine issue The Thing is seen perusing is dated 1963, indicating a period piece. This choice not only establishes a historical backdrop but also addresses the whereabouts of Marvel’s First Family within the MCU timeline. However, the placement of The Fantastic Four just before the next Avengers event hints at a possible multiverse involvement to bring them into the present. Regardless, the prospect of a 1960s retro-futuristic aesthetic promises an exciting atmosphere.