Marvel redefines superhero storytelling at 2025 Mumbai Comic Con with Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four

Comic Con becomes the stage for a bold new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Mumbai Comic Con 2025 wasn’t just about costumes, collectibles, and cosplay — it marked a clear shift in how Marvel is choosing to connect with its audience and shape the future of its cinematic storytelling. With Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: The First Steps as its centrepiece, Marvel brought more than just trailers and teases — it brought a vision.

The event buzzed with energy as fans stepped into immersive booths that doubled as narrative portals. The Thunderbolts “recruitment centre” wasn’t just a fun activity zone — it was a clever introduction to the psyche of Marvel’s new anti-hero squad. With puzzles and physical tests mimicking the skills of its unconventional heroes, fans got a literal taste of what makes these characters tick. The emphasis was clear: Marvel’s future won’t be black and white — it’s leaning into the grey.

In contrast, the Fantastic Four: The First Steps installation played with tone and texture — a retro-futuristic photo booth that evoked the nostalgia of Marvel’s roots while hinting at a bold new beginning. It was light-hearted but intentional, capturing the essence of a franchise being reimagined for a new era.

But the real conversation began on the panel stage.

In a lively session moderated by influencer Arya Kothari, panellists including Hamza Sayed (The Comic Book Store), Devesh Chhabria (Superhero Toy Store), and cosplayer Medha Shrivastava discussed where the superhero genre is headed — and how Marvel is using character complexity, legacy, and even uncertainty as storytelling tools.

Much of the discussion centred around Thunderbolts and its promise of emotional depth, exploring redemption through characters like Bucky Barnes and Yelena Belova. The panel also touched on the increasing appeal of flawed heroes — a sign of audiences maturing alongside the genre itself.

Meanwhile, the excitement around Fantastic Four was tinged with curiosity. With Pedro Pascal leading the reboot, fans are seeing this not just as a film, but a cornerstone for the next decade of the MCU. Speculation ran high, particularly around its links to larger crossover events like Avengers: Doomsday! — and even the possible return of Robert Downey Jr., a rumour that sparked audible gasps in the crowd.

This year’s Comic Con made one thing clear: Marvel isn’t simply releasing films anymore — it’s building a cultural dialogue. By bringing fans into the fold at events like these, it’s turning passive viewers into active participants in the evolution of its universe.

For superfans and casual attendees alike, the Mumbai Comic Con wasn’t just a weekend escape — it was a glimpse into the future of modern myth-making.