The latest teaser for "Avengers: Doomsday" marks an exciting return for the Fantastic Four, as they make their presence known in this fourth installment of the series. Released online after being showcased before screenings of "Avatar: Fire and Ash," this teaser is sure to grab attention.
Kicking off with a tone that’s quite serious, reminiscent of previous trailers for beloved characters like Captain America, Thor, and the X-Men, the teaser takes a light-hearted turn when the Thing, played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach, makes his introduction to M’Baku, portrayed by Winston Duke. This blend of gravity and humor sets the stage for an engaging narrative.
Letitia Wright reprises her role as Shuri, stepping into the Black Panther mantle following the heartbreaking loss of Chadwick Boseman. In a poignant narration, she shares, "I’ve lost everyone that matters to me. A king has his duties, to prepare our people for the afterlife. I have mine." The weight of her losses is substantial, having already mourned her brother T’Challa in the previous film, and now facing the death of her mother, Queen Ramonda, during Namor’s attack on Wakanda.
Speaking of Namor, the teaser features him in a striking black suit that closely resembles his comic book appearance, alongside his cousin Namora, as played by Mabel Cadena. Although they served as antagonists in "Wakanda Forever," it seems these underwater dwellers may be shifting alliances, potentially teaming up with the Wakandans to confront a greater threat posed by Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom. Fans of the comics might find it intriguing that Sue Storm, played by Vanessa Kirby, has a romantic history with Namor, which could introduce some tension for her husband Reed Richards, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, if their paths should cross.
Although Pascal, Kirby, and Joseph Quinn, who plays Johnny Storm aka the Human Torch, do not appear in this teaser, they are confirmed to be part of the ensemble cast when "Doomsday" releases in theaters on December 18. Notably, Moss-Bachrach’s Thing is the only member of the Fantastic Four featured, concluding the trailer with a memorable introduction to M’Baku.
"King M’Baku of Wakanda," he states, seemingly confirming M’Baku’s successful challenge for the throne against Shuri, which unfolded at the end of "Wakanda Forever."
Thing then responds with his own introduction, saying, "Ben. Yancy Street between Broome and Grand." This moment marks the first interaction between the Fantastic Four and any character from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) since their introduction in their own alternate 1960s world during last summer's "First Steps." The end credits of "Thunderbolts" hinted at their entrance into the MCU, and now they will join a diverse array of characters in "Doomsday."
Returning from the "Thunderbolts" cast are notable actors including Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, and Lewis Pullman. They will share the screen with stars from previous "Avengers" films, such as Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Sebastian Stan, Paul Rudd, Tom Hiddleston, and Simu Liu. Additionally, there is exciting news of an "X-Men" crossover, featuring Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, James Marsden, Kelsey Grammer, Alan Cumming, Channing Tatum, and Rebecca Romijn.
This buildup hints at an epic showdown ahead, leaving audiences eager to see how these diverse characters will interact and what conflicts may arise. Will the Fantastic Four's journey create new alliances or stir old rivalries? What are your thoughts on this intriguing mix of characters? Feel free to share your opinions below!