Marvel is taking a whimsical turn with its latest release in the “What If…?” series, as it brings beloved Disney characters into the fold of the Fantastic Four. This exclusive sneak peek reveals a unique twist that has fans buzzing.
Back when Disney’s acquisition of Marvel sent shockwaves through the fan community, many voiced concerns that their favorite heroes would undergo a family-friendly makeover. The nostalgia for grittier narratives lingered, as jokes circulated about the transformations of iconic characters. Yet, post-acquisition, box office hits like “The Avengers” and “Black Panther” proved that fans could still enjoy Marvel storytelling without compromising on depth.
Fast forward to now, and those initial fears are given new life. The upcoming comic titled “Marvel & Disney: What If…? Mickey & Friends Became the Fantastic Four” is about to debut. In this imaginative spin, fans can expect Mickey with stretchy abilities, Minnie going invisible, Goofy bursting into flames, and Donald Duck embodying the rocky essence of the Thing. Together, this eclectic group pledges to protect their home from the villain Mole Pete in a journey that unveils their new powers and origins.
This release marks an extension of a creative celebration, similar to the previous Disney100 anniversary variant covers that reimagined classic Marvel artwork featuring Disney characters. The current storylines capitalize on this nostalgic crossover, building momentum leading to the anticipated film “Fantastic Four: First Steps.”
Written by Luca Barbieri and Steve Behling, with art by Lorenzo Pastrovicchio, this comic fits neatly into a series that combines the Marvel universe with Disney’s charm. Other titles like “What If…? Donald Duck Became Wolverine” and “What If…? Minnie Became Captain Marvel” highlight this innovative mashup.
In the comic, readers will find familiar beats that echo the original “Fantastic Four” stories by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee. The narrative unfolds with recognizable introductions to each character, starting with Minnie as the Invisible Woman, followed by Donald as the Thing in a scene reminiscent of the original comic’s playful antics.
With Goofy embodying the Human Torch’s energetic spirit, the story captures the excitement of superhero adventures while retaining a distinctly Disney twist. The anticipation builds as the formidable team of Mickey and friends takes flight—and while we don’t yet see Mickey’s nemesis, it hints at exciting conflicts that might feature other classic Disney icons.
Mark your calendar because “Marvel & Disney: What If…? Mickey & Friends Became the Fantastic Four” hits shelves on January 8, 2025, both in print and digitally. This is a fusion of two worlds that promises to delight fans of all ages.
