The Geekcentric Podcast

Behind The Geeks | Matt Shakman, Julia Garner & Ralph Ineson on Marvel Studios' The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Episode Summary

In this special episode, we’re joined by The Fantastic Four: First Steps director Matt Shakman, along with stars Julia Garner (Shalla-Bal) and Ralph Ineson (Galactus). Matt shares insight into finding the pitch-perfect cast to bring Marvel’s First Family to life, how he balanced the scale of the MCU with deeply personal moments—including a touching cameo from his daughter—and what it means to shape a film truly centered around family. Then, Julia and Ralph dive into embodying two of Marvel’s most cosmic characters. Julia reflects on how her past roles might react to becoming the Silver Surfer, while Ralph opens up about channeling the voice and presence of a legendary force of nature. We also explore what it means to be Heralded into the Marvel universe and how they crafted their larger-than-life performances.

Episode Notes

In this special episode, we’re joined by The Fantastic Four: First Steps director Matt Shakman, along with stars Julia Garner (Shalla-Bal) and Ralph Ineson (Galactus).

Matt shares insight into finding the pitch-perfect cast to bring Marvel’s First Family to life, how he balanced the scale of the MCU with deeply personal moments—including a touching cameo from his daughter—and what it means to shape a film truly centered around family.

Then, Julia and Ralph dive into embodying two of Marvel’s most cosmic characters. Julia reflects on how her past roles might react to becoming the Silver Surfer, while Ralph opens up about channeling the voice and presence of a legendary force of nature. We also explore what it means to be Heralded into the Marvel universe and how they crafted their larger-than-life performances.

Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” opens in theatres July 25, 2025.