What's Happening?
The director of 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps,' Matt Shakman, has addressed the apparent disconnect between the film and the post-credit scene from 'Thunderbolts/The New Avengers.' Fans were left puzzled as the anticipated crossover did not materialize in 'First Steps.' Shakman explained that the post-credit scene in 'Thunderbolts' was created late in the production process, after he had completed his script for 'The Fantastic Four.' This resulted in the two films feeling separate despite expectations of a narrative link. The post-credit scene in 'Thunderbolts' was filmed by the Russo brothers, who are also directing 'Avengers: Doomsday,' further complicating the timeline and continuity within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
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Why It's Important?
The disconnect between these Marvel films highlights the challenges of maintaining continuity within the expansive MCU. Fans expect interconnected storylines, and deviations can lead to confusion and disappointment. This situation underscores the complexities directors face in aligning their projects with the broader MCU narrative. The issue also reflects the high stakes involved in managing fan expectations and the potential impact on box office performance. As Marvel continues to expand its universe, ensuring seamless integration of storylines becomes crucial for maintaining audience engagement and satisfaction.
What's Next?
Fans will have to wait until the release of 'Avengers: Doomsday' in December 2026 to see how the Fantastic Four's storyline progresses and integrates into the main MCU. The post-credit scene in 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' suggests future developments involving Doctor Doom and the Fantastic Four's universe. Meanwhile, Shakman has confirmed there are no plans for an extended version of 'First Steps,' despite fan requests for additional content. The anticipation for 'Avengers: Doomsday' will likely grow as fans look forward to resolving the narrative threads left hanging.
