Game-Changing Mid-Credits Scene in The Fantastic Four Explained

The Fantastic Four: First Steps showcases a pivotal mid-credits scene that stands out as potentially the most significant moment in the MCU since the initial introduction of Thanos in The Avengers. This scene not only introduces one of Marvel’s most formidable adversaries but also hints at the reasons behind the Fantastic Four’s transition into the primary MCU universe, a detail we glimpsed in the Thunderbolts* end-credits scene. Let’s delve deeper into the implications of this exciting development.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps Mid-Credits Scene: The Arrival of Doctor Doom in the MCU

The mid-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps unfolds four years after the film concludes. In this intriguing setup, we see Reed Richards, also known as Mr. Fantastic (played by Pedro Pascal), and Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman (portrayed by Vanessa Kirby), raising their son, Franklin. He appears to be a happy, healthy child who seems completely ordinary at first glance. However, this impression is deceiving, for Franklin possesses extraordinary abilities, including the power to resurrect his mother after a harrowing confrontation with the cosmic entity Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson). Despite his remarkable powers, he is simply presented as a typical preschool child who enjoys learning to talk and delights in picture books, with favorites like Michael McClintock’s A Fly Went By.

In this captivating scene, Sue reads the beloved children’s book The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle to Franklin while they are in their home at the iconic Baxter Building. She briefly steps away to locate their copy of A Fly Went By, leaving Franklin comfortably on the couch. Upon her return, however, she is met with an unsettling surprise: a mysterious man cloaked in a green hooded cape is gripping Franklin’s hand against his face, evoking a sense of dread. This enigmatic figure is none other than Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., marking a significant moment as this is the first instance of Doctor Doom appearing in the MCU.

Although audiences are aware that Downey Jr. will assume the role of Doctor Doom, The Fantastic Four: First Steps tantalizingly withholds his full face reveal, leaving fans eagerly anticipating more. This strategic introduction sets the stage for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, where Doctor Doom is expected to take center stage as the main antagonist. The mere hint of his presence raises numerous questions about his intentions and future interactions with the Fantastic Four.

This leads us to ponder a significant question: What is Doctor Doom doing in the Baxter Building, and what are his intentions regarding Franklin? Is he, much like Galactus, drawn to Franklin’s remarkable cosmic powers? Or is it more likely that he is intrigued by Franklin’s unique healing abilities, which allowed him to resurrect Sue? Given Doctor Doom’s own facial scarring, one can’t help but wonder if he is hoping that Franklin can somehow alleviate his condition, as indicated by his strange request for Franklin to touch his face. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: should Doctor Doom target Franklin, the Fantastic Four will undoubtedly pursue him with unwavering determination.

Exploring the Connection Between The Fantastic Four: First Steps and the Thunderbolts* End-Credits Scene

Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Pedro Pascal in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.”
Credit: Jay Maidment

The end-credits scene from Thunderbolts* hinted at the Fantastic Four’s imminent arrival into the MCU, showcasing their spaceship as it navigates through Earth’s atmosphere. This raises the intriguing question: What prompted their departure from their own dimension?

Upon reflecting on the mid-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, it becomes clear that the catalyst for their dimensional shift is likely Doctor Doom. It’s plausible that he abducted Franklin right from under Sue’s watch, and the Fantastic Four’s journey across dimensions is a desperate mission to reclaim him. Alternatively, they may be seeking to alert parallel universes about the impending threat posed by Doctor Doom. Regardless of the true circumstances, one thing is unmistakable: the ominous arrival of Doomsday is on the horizon.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is currently showing in theaters, inviting audiences to explore this captivating new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.