Marvel’s original Fantastic Four film, released on 8 July 2005, turns 20 this week. The 20th Century Fox production introduced audiences to Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm—played by Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans and Michael Chiklis—helping to usher in the modern era of big-budget superhero movies despite mixed reviews. The anniversary comes as attention shifts to the franchise’s next chapter. Marvel Studios plans to debut a new installment, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” in theaters on 25 July 2025, positioning the property for its first appearance inside the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The milestone has renewed interest in the original cast’s subsequent careers and the series’ influence on a genre that now dominates global box-office receipts.