MCU's Future: Council of Reeds vs Rick and Morty?

The concept of the Interdimensional Council of Reeds could be a unique selling point for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Fantastic Four franchise, as it expands the MCU's multiverse and offers the opportunity for previous Reed Richards actors to make cameos. However, the Council of Ricks parody in Rick and Morty may have already diminished the novelty of the Council of Reeds before it even makes it to the big screen. With the Fantastic Four being led by one of the world's most intelligent scientists and being part of the final stretch of the "Multiverse Saga," interdimensional travel is likely to play a pivotal role in their story. The Fantastic Four are known as Marvel's first family and their veteran status is integral to their characterization in the larger Marvel Comics universe. Despite debuting in Phase Six, the MCU's Fantastic Four can retain this trait by using the multiverse to explain their absence. The Council of Reeds presents a convenient shortcut for the Fantastic Four reboot to demonstrate that Reed and his team have already navigated the multiverse and mastered the art of reality-hopping.

What Is The Interdimensional Council Of Reeds?

While the Council of Reeds may be a staple in the Fantastic Four comics, it's Rick and Morty's parody of the concept that has caught the attention of casual audiences today. Marvel Studios' upcoming Fantastic Four movie could attempt to incorporate the Council, but with Rick and Morty's satire already making fun of the idea, the MCU may struggle to deliver a fresh take on the matter. It's clear that self-parody is a key element of Marvel's strategy, but in this case, Rick and Morty might have outdone them.

The Interdimensional Council of Reeds was established by three versions of Mr. Fantastic, each of whom possessed the Infinity Gauntlet in their respective universes. They created a magnificent assembly hall in the space between dimensions, where other variations of Reed could meet their interdimensional counterparts and collaborate to improve the multiverse. The concept was that if every version of the greatest mind in the world joined together to tap into each other's immense knowledge, they could "solve everything." When a nearly unbeatable villain like Doctor Doom or Galactus appeared in one of the Reeds' universes, the Council would band together to assist that Reed in repelling them. However, conflicts arose when the true cost of the Council of Reeds became apparent. In order to serve the multiverse, they had to abandon their own reality. This would be a fascinating conflict for the MCU to explore, particularly since Marvel has thus far struggled to connect with audiences on an emotional level with its multiverse storylines.

In the world of Rick and Morty, the Trans-Dimensional Council of Ricks was formed by a group of Ricks from different universes to protect themselves from interdimensional threats. The council consists of Riq IV, Rick Prime, Quantum Rick, and Maximums Rickimus, but Rick C-137 is known as "the rogue" for refusing to abide by their rules. The show has explored the Council concept extensively, including the popular "Tales from the Citadel" episode, predating Marvel's exploration of the Council of Reeds in films.

A Council of Reeds appearance in the MCU could bring back beloved Mr. Fantastic actors like Ioan Gruffudd, Miles Teller, and John Krasinski from Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Additionally, there could be hilarious parody versions of the character played by comedians such as Seth Green and Stephen Colbert, or unexpected casting choices like Randall Park (Steve/“Asian Jim” from The Office). They might even include a nod to the unreleased 1994 Fantastic Four movie by featuring Alex Hyde-White in a brief cameo. However, the concept of a bureaucratic organization revolving around infinite versions of the same man has already been thoroughly explored in Rick and Morty's comedic style.

The Council of Reeds would be a thrilling addition to the MCU, even though it may lead to comparisons with Rick and Morty's Council of Ricks. It provides an opportunity to showcase Reed's unique abilities and distinguish him from other brilliant minds in the Marvel universe. While some may assume that Marvel is ripping off Rick and Morty, it is worth noting that the Council of Reeds concept predates Rick and Morty's Council of Ricks, and the inclusion of Michael Waldron, Jessica Gao, and Jeff Loveness from the Rick and Morty writing team only adds to the excitement of what the MCU can bring to the table.