Officially, Julia Garner has been cast as the Silver Surfer in Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps, which is scheduled for release on July 25, 2025. She will play a female Shalla-Bal, the first live-action appearance of this version of the famous cosmic figure.
In an interview, Garner revealed that she was initially taken aback by the offer, stating that she was not familiar with motion-capture technology and did not know how to surf. But she accepted the challenge and read a lot of Fantastic Four and Silver Surfer comics to get ready. Director Matt Shakman characterized Shalla-Bal as mysterious, evoking a sense of mystery surrounding her loyalty to Galactus.
The film follows an established team of superheroes and skips the conventional origin story, taking place in the retro-futuristic 1960s. Ebon Moss-Bachrach plays Ben Grimm, Vanessa Kirby plays Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn plays Johnny Storm, and Pedro Pascal plays Reed Richards. Galactus, the cosmic antagonist, is portrayed by Ralph Ineson.
In contrast to earlier interpretations, like the 2007 version, Garner’s portrayal of Shalla-Bal offers a novel interpretation of the Silver Surfer character. She remains silent about the plot details but reveals that the movie will reveal her character’s backstory. Despite her uncertainty about any upcoming MCU appearances, Garner says she is very interested in a standalone Silver Surfer project.
How can I watch Fantastic 4 sequentially?
If you’re eager to dive into the world of the Fantastic Four, here’s a comprehensive guide to watching their movies and TV series in both release and chronological order.
Fantastic Four Viewing Order
1. Release Order
Watching in release order allows you to experience the evolution of the Fantastic Four across different eras and interpretations
- The Fantastic Four (1994) – Unreleased film, available online
- Fantastic Four (2005) – Directed by Tim Story
- Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) – Sequel to the 2005 film
- Fantastic Four (2015) – Reboot directed by Josh Trank
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) – Features a cameo by Mr. Fantastic
- Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) – Includes an extended Human Torch cameo
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025) – Upcoming MCU film set in a retro-futuristic 1960s
- Avengers: Doomsday (2026) – Continuation of the MCU storyline
- Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) – Further expands the MCU narrative
Where to Watch
- Disney+ Offers streaming for the 2005 and 2007 films, as well as the 1994 animated series.
- Max hosts the 2015 Fantastic Four reboot.
- YouTube/Vimeo The unreleased 1994 film is available through various uploads.
Availability may vary based on your region.
For a deeper dive into the Fantastic Four universe, consider exploring their animated series:
- The Fantastic Four (1967–1968)
- The New Fantastic Four (1978)
- Fantastic Four: The Animated Series (1994–1996)
- Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Heroes (2006–2010)
These series provide additional context and adventures beyond the films.
Enjoy your journey through the adventures of Marvel’s First Family!
