As audiences immerse themselves in the cinematic splendor of "Captain America: Brave New World," anticipation builds for the remaining two Marvel blockbusters set to grace the silver screen this year, with "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" standing proudly as the second in line. Its release follows closely on the heels of "Thunderbolts," scheduled to arrive in 2025, leaving fans eager to uncover the myriad secrets surrounding this highly anticipated reboot, particularly the enigmatic role that John Malkovich has embraced.
While the identity of Malkovich's character remains shrouded in mystery, the reasoning behind his eventual foray into the MCU, after repeatedly declining invitations, is as clear as day. Recalling one of his most iconic lines from "Rounders" – "Pay that man his money" – delivered by his KGB character in 1998, one can't help but draw parallels to his candid revelations to GQ about his MCU abstinence.
Malkovich unequivocally stated, "The reason I didn't do them had absolutely nothing to do with artistic qualms. I simply didn't approve of their offer terms. Making these films is arduous... If I'm expected to dangle from a crane against a green screen for six months, then by all means, compensate me accordingly. If not, I'm perfectly content directing theater, or engaging in other creative endeavors."
In essence, Malkovich stands firm in his belief in his own worth, refusing to settle for less. Although curiosity piques over the specific Marvel films he declined, one thing is certain: he felt underappreciated for dedicating half a year to a blockbuster. Ironically, his experience on "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" revealed that it wasn't so dissimilar from his preferred theatrical endeavors, as he mused, "It's akin to performing theater. You conjure up images of non-existent elements and enact your little drama."
Fortunately for MCU enthusiasts and moviegoers worldwide, Marvel Studios eventually took a page out of Malkovich's "Rounders" character's book, offering him a sum that met his satisfaction for"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" has arrived, shrouding the identity of Malkovich's character in this Phase Six premiere in a veil of meticulous secrecy. The unveiling of this mystery is still pending – perhaps through insightful interviews, strategic marketing campaigns, or as a delightful twist within the film's narrative itself. Nonetheless, given the meticulous efforts invested in securing his remarkable talent, one can confidently anticipate that Malkovich will command a significant presence on screen, stealing the spotlight with his enigmatic portrayal.
Joining Malkovich in "First Steps" are an ensemble cast including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn, Ralph Ineson, Julia Garner, Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles. Directed by "WandaVision's" Matt Shakman, and set against a unique backdrop within the Marvel multiverse, the film is poised to enchant audiences when it premieres in theaters on July 25.
