(Image Source: Marvel Studios)
It's a common practice for major IP adaptations and sequels to launch prequel comics ahead of their film releases, expanding on stories that precede the main plot and building promotional buzz. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is a prime example of an IP that frequently employs this strategy to generate excitement for its films. The upcoming "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," the new reboot of "Fantastic Four," will continue this tradition.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics)
Marvel officially announced today that a one-shot prequel comic for "First Steps" will be released on July 2. The publisher has tapped Matt Fraction and Mark Buckingham, both acclaimed artists with previous "Fantastic Four" comic credits, to handle the writing and art, respectively.
Marvel has previously stressed that "First Steps" will not be a traditional origin story, meaning it won't delve into how the four members acquired their superpowers. Instead, the film will focus on their early adventures as a team, with the prequel comic bridging a four-year gap in their timeline. Significantly, this prequel comic marks the first time Marvel Comics and Marvel Studios have collaborated on a film tie-in comic, a departure from previous prequels which were solely spearheaded by the comics division.