Revolutionary Mole Man: The Surprising Transformation in Fantastic Four’s First Steps!

Curious Marvel enthusiasts are eager to discover how the character of Mole Man has been transformed in the upcoming 2025 movie, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” Set for release in the U.S. on July 25, 2025, this film will feature Paul Walter Hauser portraying the subterranean villain who originally clashed with the superhero team in The Fantastic Four #1 comic from 1961. However, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) production takes a fresh approach to Mole Man’s physical appearance and background as part of a contemporary retelling for the antagonist. Here’s an overview of key differences between the original Mole Man and his new incarnation in the 2025 Fantastic Four film universe (be aware, spoilers follow!).

What are the changes to Mole Man in The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie?

In The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Mole Man undergoes a notable transformation from being the dictator of Subterranea to serving as an organizing leader for the Moloids, with a goal to foster growth within his civilization. Unlike before, he no longer resembles a comical, campy antagonist, although he retains his distinctive rectangular glasses and green cape.

The primary distinctions are highlighted in the prequel comic for the film titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps #1”, penned by Matt Fraction and illustrated by Mark Buckingham. This comic not only elucidates how they obtained their powers, but also demonstrates their transformation into superheroes for the first time as they defended New York City against an attack from beneath its surface. The assault originated from Subterranea, led by none other than Harvey Elder, better known as Mole Man. Instead of large blue rectangular glasses, he dons metal-framed spectacles. Beneath his green cloak, he wears a worker’s uniform and a white shirt.

The excessive building in the city has resulted in multiple underground tunnel collapses within this hidden society, prompting Mole Man to retaliate. He manages to summon Giganto, an enormous, lime-green monster that made its debut in a Little Caesar’s commercial for the film, to destroy the urban landscape. However, the Fantastic Four manage to put a swift end to the chaos; The Thing delivers a heavy blow to Giganto while Sue Storm knocks it unconscious. Just as they prepare to assault a female Moloid, Mole Man surrenders, held by Mr. Fantastic, and is escorted away as a captive for political reasons.

Held captive within the Fantastic Four’s base, Harvey confides in Sue Storm that her grandfather, J.F. Storm, was acquainted with him. Not only did he teach Harvey how to become a leader and labor activist, but these abilities enabled Harvey to bring the Moloids together as one community. This is quite different from the traditional comics where Mole Man is portrayed as a disgruntled scientist who seeks revenge on the world for discrediting his hypothesis that Earth is hollow. Moved by her conviction that her powers were meant to foster harmony, Sue and the rest of the team decide to serve as diplomats, working towards the peaceful coexistence of Subterranea with the surface world.

At a later time, Mole Man steps before the United Nations General Assembly during an urgent meeting, appealing to them not to obliterate his civilization while pursuing infrastructure advancements. He also requests they acknowledge Subterranea as a sovereign principality. His plea is successful, and thus, the team assumes the role of ambassadors for any future cultures that Earth may encounter.

In this new interpretation of Mole Man, the storyline of The Fantastic Four: The First Steps undergoes a major shift. There have been whispers that both Mole Man and Giganto are featured in the movie’s opening scenes as a series of flashbacks showcasing the heroic deeds of the team. However, given the ending of the connected comic, it seems they might end up joining forces with our heroes to combat The Silver Surfer and Galactus in the battle that lies ahead.

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2025-07-14 21:27