A fascinating detail from <em>The Fantastic Four: First Steps</em> trailers is an intriguing real-world reference that only a select few may notice. Each installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is known for concealing numerous references and easter eggs related to both the original comic book source material and other Marvel projects. However, the hunt for these hidden gems can vary in difficulty. The alternate universe presented in The Fantastic Four: First Steps might showcase fewer typical MCU easter eggs since the characters of the franchise exist within a different timeline than Marvel’s iconic First Family. Consequently, instead of the usual MCU references, this film may incorporate nods to other beloved franchises and significant real-world events.

Interestingly, the second trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps includes a nod to the iconic DC Comics hero, Superman. In a scene where a group of children challenges Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal of the Thing to lift a car, he humorously lifts a green beetle car that bears a striking resemblance to the vehicle that Superman famously throws in DC Comics’ Action Comics #1. This clever reference to DC Comics aligns perfectly with the overarching theme of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, as the film is crafted as a heartfelt tribute to the Golden Age and Silver Age of comic books. Moreover, viewers can anticipate additional nods to vintage pop culture throughout the film.

Discover the Hidden Historical Duo Easter Egg in The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Explore the Double Reference to Real-Life Pop Culture in The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Trailers

Among the confirmed cast of The Fantastic Four: First Steps is the talented Matt Gattis, who takes on the role of the host for the in-universe variety show titled “The Ted Gilbert Show.” This fictional show appears to serve as an alternate-universe counterpart to the real-life “The Ed Sullivan Show,” which captivated audiences from 1948 to 1971. The Ed Sullivan Show featured some of the most iconic guests in entertainment history, including legends like Elvis Presley, the Jackson Five, and Janis Joplin. In the trailers, the backdrop of the Fantastic Four’s appearance on the Ted Gilbert Show closely resembles the stage used during the Beatles’ memorable 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, establishing a delightful connection between the two shows.

In addition to the clear reference to the Beatles, the MCU’s Ted Gilbert Show and its allusions to the real-life Ed Sullivan Show may also serve as a nod to the iconic duo Gilbert and Sullivan. This legendary partnership between dramatist W.S. Gilbert and composer Sir Arthur Sullivan produced some of the most celebrated operettas of the nineteenth century, and their creative contributions have had a profound impact on the realms of musical theater and comedy. Timeless works such as “The Pirates of Penzance” and “The Mikado” continue to resonate within popular culture even today.

Understanding the Lasting Significance of Gilbert & Sullivan

Discover How Gilbert & Sullivan’s Works Have Surpassed Their Creators’ Fame

The creative duo of Gilbert and Sullivan was a significant cultural phenomenon during their time, particularly when considering the limited means of art distribution available in the past. Although the popularity of W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan has waned since their peak, the lasting influence of their works remains prominent across various artistic disciplines, particularly in theater. Their songs are renowned for their clever wordplay, and they have inspired a wide array of adaptations in musicals, cartoons, and sitcoms. For instance, the character Data performs a number from H.M.S. Pinafore in the film Star Trek: Insurrection, while Yakko’s iconic “Nations of the World” song from Animaniacs draws inspiration from Gilbert and Sullivan’s operettas, showcasing the enduring legacy of their creative genius.