The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) appears to be regaining its mojo after a period of mixed results at the box office and lukewarm reception to some Disney Plus series. In a strategic shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity, the studio has seen positive feedback with upcoming releases such as “Deadpool and Wolverine,” “Agatha All Along,” and “Thunderbolts.” While not every theatrical release this year has succeeded—the majority did struggle to break even—the trajectory is looking promising as the MCU approaches the conclusion of its Multiverse Saga, with fans eagerly anticipating “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars,” along with the highly awaited “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”
Among the successes this year, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” stood out at the box office and its fans can now look forward to its debut on Disney Plus. Marvel Studios announced that the film will be available for streaming on November 5, 2025. This marks the long-awaited triumph for the superhero team as it joins the MCU, a moment fans have anticipated since Disney’s acquisition of Fox.
Released on July 25, the film introduced audiences to the titular characters for the first time in a Marvel Studios project, featuring notable talents such as Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (the Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (the Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (The Thing). With a global box office total of $521 million, despite a slight drop in its second week, the film was deemed a significant success and a much-needed morale boost for the MCU following earlier underperforming installments.
With its recent digital release in September and physical media debut earlier this month, fans were eagerly awaiting news of its streaming availability. Although Marvel has typically taken around 100 days for new movies to premiere on Disney Plus, the timeline has varied post-pandemic, with “Thunderbolts” setting a record at 118 days. The arrival of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” at just 103 days is delightfully quicker than expected.
As the MCU enters a quieter period, fans are thrilled to have access to this beloved film while awaiting future projects. With no additional releases scheduled for the remainder of the year and “Wonder Man” moving to a January premiere, the timing of the film’s streaming debut is ideal. This opportunity allows fans to reconnect with the iconic superhero team in anticipation of their next appearance in “Avengers: Doomsday.”
Mark your calendars: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” will be available to stream on Disney Plus starting November 5, 2025.