With Fantastic Four: First Steps hitting theaters, Marvel adds its 37th chapter to the ever-growing Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond the action and introductions of Reed Richards and the crew, the film is a treasure trove of nods, tributes, and subtle clues — perfect for eagle-eyed fans and longtime comic book lovers. From honoring the comic’s legendary creators to teasing future multiverse showdowns, this film is layered with meaning.
A Loving Tribute to the Architects of the Fantastic Four
The movie kicks off in an alternate universe known as Earth-828 — a designation not found in comic canon but deeply meaningful to Marvel’s roots. The number is a quiet celebration of co-creator Jack Kirby’s birthday: August 28 (8/28). It’s a subtle yet powerful way to pay tribute to the man who helped bring Marvel’s First Family to life.
The appreciation doesn’t stop there. A fleeting scene through a window shows two men at drafting desks — a clear homage to Kirby and Stan Lee, the team behind the original comics. Sharp-eyed viewers will also spot “King Dry Cleaners” and “Stanley’s Service Center” along Yancy Street, cheeky nods to the men whose imaginations shaped generations.
Even Reed’s rocket ship is named Excelsior, referencing Stan Lee’s iconic sign-off and the spirit of always reaching higher.
Cameos from the Shadows of the Franchise
While the well-known casts of previous Fantastic Four films are nowhere to be found, the 1994 unreleased adaptation sneaks in a heartfelt surprise. Actors Alex Hyde-White, Rebecca Staab, Jay Underwood, and Michael Bailey Smith — who portrayed the original Fantastic Four in a shelved Roger Corman production — make discreet appearances as civilians and workers. For fans aware of their hidden history, their cameo is a sweet nod to a forgotten chapter in the team’s cinematic journey.
The Thing’s Famous Line Gets a Real-World Twist
One of the most iconic catchphrases in comic book history — “It’s clobberin’ time!” — makes its appearance, but with a clever twist. In First Steps, Ben Grimm seems uncomfortable with the slogan, brushing it off as something from the cartoon rather than his real persona. The film even features clips styled like the 1967 Hanna-Barbera Fantastic Four cartoon, complete with that classic animation flair.
Cosmic Crushes and Comic Book Love
Johnny Storm’s instant infatuation with the female Silver Surfer, Shalla-Bal, is more than just a funny moment — it’s also a nod to Johnny’s romantic past in the comics. From a Skrull posing as Alicia Masters to a more recent storyline involving a very non-human bug alien, Johnny’s heart has always found the weirdest of soulmates. His attraction to alien women continues to be a charming (and slightly awkward) trait.
Familiar Names and Sneaky Easter Eggs
Yancy Street, The Thing’s old stomping ground, is rich with layered references. There’s Kaplan’s, a nod to the movie’s co-writer Jeff Kaplan, and Westview Appliances, a callback to director Matt Shakman’s previous work on WandaVision. Look close enough and you’ll even find subtle callouts to monsters like Oog from the Tales of Suspense comics, and the Greenwood Hotel — a wink to Silver Surfer’s comic love interest, Dawn Greenwood.
A Rival Universe? A Superman Tribute?
During a sweet scene where Ben lifts a car for some local kids, the vehicle’s resemblance to the one Superman throws on the cover of Action Comics #1 is impossible to ignore. Whether intentional or not, it feels like a respectful wink to the Golden Age of superheroes — and perhaps a quiet hat tip to Marvel’s friendly rivalry with DC Comics.
Doom is Coming… Eventually
Victor Von Doom may not appear in full form, but the signs are all there. His homeland of Latveria is mentioned several times, including an empty chair at an international meeting — a seat saved, perhaps, for future domination. And in the film’s post-credits scene, his signature mask makes a shadowy appearance.
While the character doesn’t speak, it’s clear Doom’s presence is looming. Marvel has already confirmed Robert Downey Jr. will take on the role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday — a twist that has fans buzzing about the multiverse and potential clashes with Mr. Fantastic, now played by Pedro Pascal.
A Final Farewell
The credits close with a heartfelt tribute to Jamie Christopher, a beloved first assistant director who worked on several Marvel films before his passing in 2023. His contributions behind the camera helped shape the visual tone of many MCU favorites, and his absence is deeply felt. His name lives on in the legacy of Fantastic Four: First Steps.
Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the multiverse connections, or the clever deep cuts, Fantastic Four: First Steps delivers far more than just an origin story. It’s a love letter to Marvel history — past, present, and future — all wrapped in cosmic suits and clobberin’ charm.