The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family – Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Eben Moss-Bachrach) – as they face their most daunting challenge yet.

Industrial Light & Magic’s work on the Matt Shakman-directed production focused on the movie’s third act, including the climactic battle between the Fantastic Four and Galactus (Ralph Ineson). ILM also took the lead in developing the final CG incarnation of The Thing as well as the look development of Mr. Fantastic and Galactus, all in partnership with Marvel’s visual development team. ILM also worked closely with Sony Pictures Imageworks to create large CG environments of an alternate-dimension New York City from the 1960s. This required a multi-day, second unit shoot in New York to capture HDRI material.

ILM’s work during the final battle sequence included the use of 2D photographic effects to create Sue Storm’s powers, the addition of significant CG detailing to the massive Galactus for extreme close-ups, the establishment of specific movement parameters for Mr. Fantastic, and the integration of originally-designed billboard, architectural, and related elements of New York in collaboration with production designer Kasra Farahani.

In collaboration with production visual effects supervisor Scott Stokdyk, ILM visual effects supervisor Daniele Bigi and team produced over 300 shots for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, with work centered at the London studio with additional support from Sydney and Mumbai.

Read more about Fantastic Four: First Steps on ILM.com:

A Fantastic Feat: ILM’s Daniele Bigi on the Visual Effects of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’