Malkovich expressed that while the Marvel films can be physically demanding, involving long hours on green screens, he found similarities between these productions and his theater work
John Malkovich, set to make his MCU debut this summer in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, has revealed he turned down multiple Marvel offers in the past due to dissatisfaction with the deals. Speaking to GQ, the 71-year-old actor admitted that his decision wasn’t based on artistic reasons but rather financial ones, stating he’d rather not work on grueling productions unless the pay matched the effort.
Malkovich expressed that while the Marvel films can be physically demanding, involving long hours on green screens, he found similarities between these productions and his theater work. “You imagine a bunch of stuff that isn’t there and do your little play,” he said, noting the theatrical aspects of superhero movies.
The actor also looked back on his experience voicing Dr. Octavius Brine in Penguins of Madagascar (2014), describing it as one of the most challenging roles of his career due to the extensive number of variations required for every line. Although he didn’t make much money from the role, he acknowledged that he’d approach similar projects differently now, ensuring a better deal.
Malkovich’s role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is still under wraps, but fans speculate he may portray Ivan Kragoff, a Soviet scientist known as Red Ghost. The film will star Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Vanessa Kirby, and more, with Ralph Ineson playing Galactus.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has confirmed that the movie will be a period piece set in an alternate version of New York City, sparking excitement among fans eager to see how the MCU will bring this classic comic storyline to life.
