Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps Faces Test Screening Turmoil—What’s Going Wrong?

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has long been a juggernaut in the world of blockbuster filmmaking, delivering iconic superhero sagas that have captivated audiences globally. However, as the MCU ventures into Phase Six with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, set to release on July 25, 2025, recent test screenings have reportedly sent shockwaves through Marvel Studios. Whispers of disappointment, mixed reactions, and even emergency reshoots have sparked widespread speculation: is Marvel’s highly anticipated reboot of its First Family in trouble? With the stakes higher than ever, let’s dive into what’s happening behind the scenes and why fans are buzzing with both excitement and concern.

A High-Stakes Reboot for Marvel’s First Family

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is not just another MCU film; it’s a pivotal moment for Marvel Studios. The Fantastic Four—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach)—are Marvel’s original superhero team, debuting in 1961 and laying the foundation for the Marvel Comics universe. Previous cinematic attempts in 2005, 2007, and 2015 were met with varying degrees of criticism, leaving fans eager for a definitive adaptation under Marvel Studios’ stewardship.

Directed by Matt Shakman, known for his work on WandaVision, First Steps promises a fresh take, set in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic alternate universe. The film introduces cosmic threats like Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), alongside a narrative that explores the team’s dynamics four years after gaining their powers. The inclusion of a post-credits scene, teased as a potential setup for Avengers: Doomsday, adds to the film’s significance in the MCU’s Multiverse Saga. With such a stellar cast and ambitious scope, expectations are sky-high.

Test Screenings: A Mixed Bag of Reactions

Recent test screenings, held in Los Angeles in late May 2025, have painted a complex picture. Unlike Marvel’s usual practice of conducting “friends and family” screenings, the decision to hold public test screenings suggests the studio was seeking broader feedback—potentially a sign of underlying concerns. Initial reactions leaked online, with some attendees describing the film as “mid” or “okay,” while others praised its bold cosmic horror elements and retro aesthetic. One attendee reportedly called the film “excellent,” highlighting its spectacle-heavy sci-fi adventure appeal.

However, criticisms have emerged, particularly around character development. Fans have expressed disappointment with the portrayal of Reed Richards, noting that his elastic powers feel underutilized or poorly showcased. Similarly, Ben Grimm’s role as The Thing has drawn scrutiny, with some feeling his character lacks emotional depth. The CGI, a critical component for a film featuring cosmic entities and superhuman abilities, has also been flagged as “unfinished” or “lacking polish,” though this is not uncommon for test screenings of films still in post-production.

The mixed feedback has fueled speculation about Marvel’s confidence in the project. Some sources suggest the studio was initially optimistic about First Steps, but the lukewarm reception has prompted a reevaluation. The presence of Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige at a screening in Regal Long Beach underscores the studio’s hands-on approach to addressing these concerns.

Emergency Reshoots: A Cause for Panic?

Reports of emergency reshoots have intensified the narrative of Marvel being in “panic mode.” Reshoots are standard in blockbuster filmmaking, allowing studios to refine scenes based on test feedback. However, the timing—less than two months before the film’s release—raises questions about the extent of the changes needed. Some speculate that Marvel is reworking the film’s ending, with rumors of a leaked conclusion involving the team’s confrontation with Galactus and a possible tie-in to Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr. in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

The decision to conduct reshoots may address specific issues, such as enhancing character arcs or improving visual effects. For instance, the CGI concerns could be mitigated by refining scenes involving The Thing’s rocky physique or Galactus’ towering presence. Yet, major narrative overhauls, such as rewriting the script to deepen character development, seem unlikely given the tight timeline. This suggests Marvel is focusing on targeted fixes to elevate the film from “okay” to exceptional.

The Bigger Picture: Marvel’s Challenging 2025

The stakes for First Steps are amplified by Marvel’s recent struggles. While Thunderbolts was a box office success, Captain America: Brave New World faced harsh test screening feedback and mixed reviews upon release. The MCU’s post-Endgame era has been criticized for inconsistent quality, with films like Eternals and The Marvels underperforming critically and financially. First Steps is seen as a potential turning point, tasked with rekindling audience enthusiasm ahead of monumental projects like Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars.

The film also faces fierce competition in the summer box office, going head-to-head with James Gunn’s Superman and Jurassic World Rebirth. To stand out, First Steps must deliver a compelling story, memorable characters, and jaw-dropping visuals. The retro-futuristic setting and cosmic horror elements, inspired by Lovecraftian dread, offer a unique flavor, but they must be executed flawlessly to win over audiences.

Fan Expectations and the Galactus Factor

A significant portion of the excitement—and pressure—surrounds the introduction of Galactus, one of Marvel’s most iconic villains. In the comics, Galactus is a planet-devouring cosmic entity whose presence evokes existential dread. Early glimpses, including a Snapple promo and a scene showcased at CCXP Mexico, depict a thrilling sequence where the Fantastic Four evade the Silver Surfer while navigating a black hole. This high-stakes scenario, coupled with Sue Storm’s pregnancy, adds personal and emotional stakes to the team’s cosmic battle.

However, adapting Galactus is no small feat. Previous Fantastic Four films struggled with their antagonists—most notably the 2007 film’s much-maligned cloud-like Galactus. Fans are hopeful that Ralph Ineson’s portrayal, combined with modern visual effects, will deliver a faithful and terrifying rendition. The test screening feedback suggests Marvel is leaning into a darker, more ambitious tone, but the execution remains critical.

The Road Ahead: Can Marvel Turn the Tide?

Despite the concerns, there’s reason for optimism. Test screenings are snapshots of a work in progress, and Marvel has a track record of using feedback to refine its films. The studio’s decision to conduct public screenings early indicates a proactive approach, giving them time to address issues before the July release. The involvement of director Matt Shakman, who has navigated complex narratives in the MCU, and a talented cast led by Pedro Pascal, suggests First Steps has the potential to overcome its hurdles.

Moreover, the film’s unique setting and tone could set it apart in a crowded superhero landscape. The 1960s-inspired aesthetic, combined with a focus on family dynamics and cosmic stakes, offers a fresh take on the Fantastic Four. If Marvel can enhance character development, polish the visuals, and deliver a satisfying conclusion, First Steps could emerge as a standout entry in Phase Six.

Why Everyone’s Talking

The buzz surrounding The Fantastic Four: First Steps reflects the high expectations and challenges facing Marvel Studios. Fans are eager to see whether this reboot can finally do justice to Marvel’s First Family, while the studio grapples with the pressure to deliver a hit. The mixed test screening reactions, rumors of reshoots, and the looming presence of Galactus have created a perfect storm of anticipation and uncertainty.

As the release date approaches, all eyes will be on Marvel to see if they can transform First Steps into a triumph. Will the Fantastic Four soar to new heights, or will they stumble under the weight of expectations? One thing is certain: the journey to July 25, 2025, will be a thrilling ride for fans and filmmakers alike.