Does Marvel’s Fantastic Four Reboot Finally Get The Thing Right?

Marvel’s First Family is set to return to the big screen with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” premiering next summer. This live-action film will introduce the beloved comic characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Early promotional art and test footage, showcased at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con and D23 Expo, hint at a unique 1960s aesthetic, paying homage to the decade when the team first appeared in the pages of Marvel Comics. Leaked set photos have also given fans a sneak peek at the film’s design for Ben Grimm, aka The Thing, played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach.

Although we still have nearly a year until “First Steps” hits theaters, early indications suggest that this film could deliver the most comic-accurate portrayal of The Thing we’ve ever seen in live-action. Despite not yet seeing footage of The Thing in action, the convention-exclusive clips showed him either in human form or as a silhouette in superhero form on a “Dating Game”-like TV show. Moss-Bachrach hinted in previous interviews that his performance would employ motion-capture technology, though it’s still unclear what practical effects might also be used.

The Thing, known for his imposing frame and rock-like orange skin, looks remarkably similar to his comic book representation. His design strongly resembles the artwork of Jack Kirby, co-creator of the Fantastic Four, particularly with exaggerated eyebrows and enormous shoulders. This choice not only shows the film’s reverence for the comics but also offers a touching tribute, as Kirby often confirmed that he modeled The Thing after himself.

Jack Kirby once said, “The Thing was really myself. If you’ll notice the way the Thing talks and acts, you’ll find that the Thing is really Jack Kirby. He has my manners, he has my manner of speech, and he thinks the way I do. He’s excitable, and you’ll find that he’s very, very active among people, and he can muscle his way through a crowd. I find that I’m that sort of person.”

Bringing such distinct characteristics to life in live-action has proven challenging in past adaptations. Roger Corman’s 1994 low-budget version featured The Thing in a rubber suit, which, while expressive, ventured into the uncanny valley. Michael Chiklis’ 2005 and 2007 portrayals in “Fantastic Four” and “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” respectively, were praised for using a practical suit, though they missed some key visual details like the pronounced eyebrows. Jamie Bell’s 2015 portrayal, rendered with CGI, offered a technically superior representation but felt more cold and brutal compared to the character fans cherish.

With “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” we might be on the cusp of witnessing a rendition of The Thing that satisfies both long-time fans and new audiences. The dedication to staying true to Jack Kirby’s original design elements is encouraging and shows a deep respect for the comic book roots.

While we’re still some time away from the film’s release or even its first trailer, the project’s current trajectory looks promising. The design choices for The Thing suggest that “First Steps” will successfully reintroduce this beloved character to mainstream audiences while honoring his comic book origins.

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” will be released exclusively in theaters on July 25, 2025.

Source: ComicBook