Marvel Studios’ 2025 release, Fantastic Four: First Steps, not only reimagines the origins of Marvel’s First Family but also pays heartfelt tribute to the legendary creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. While Stan Lee passed away in 2018, his legacy continues to influence every corner of the Marvel Universe, and this film embraces that history with creative nods to both icons.
Subtle Yet Meaningful Tributes
Director Matt Shakman explained that honoring Lee and Kirby was central to the film’s production:
"We wanted this movie to be an unabashed celebration of Mr. Kirby, who I think should be spoken in the same breath as Stan Lee at every moment."
One of the most touching tributes appears early in the film: two characters resembling Lee and Kirby are seen working at a drafting table in a comic book publisher’s office. This scene mirrors a moment from Fantastic Four #10 (1962), where Lee and Kirby are depicted brainstorming a villain just before Doctor Doom enacts a body-swapping scheme. Fans will also notice references such as the office name, “Timely Comics”, Marvel’s original name, and various pieces of artwork inspired by the duo’s early collaborations.
Earth-828 and Other Easter Eggs
The film introduces Earth-828, an alternate reality where the Fantastic Four face off against Galactus. The number 828 is a tribute to Jack Kirby’s birthday, August 28, highlighting the filmmakers’ attention to detail and reverence for the legendary artist.
Celebrating Marvel History
Through these subtle references, Fantastic Four: First Steps honors the profound impact Lee and Kirby had on comic books and popular culture. The film intertwines these homages with its retrofuturistic 1960s setting, allowing new fans to enjoy the story while longtime enthusiasts can appreciate the Easter eggs celebrating Marvel’s history.
In doing so, the movie ensures that the legacy of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby continues to inspire audiences, reminding viewers of the visionaries who created some of the most enduring characters in pop culture.
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