Key Takeaways:
– In the earliest X-Men films, comics were banned on-set by director Bryan Singer.
– Actor Hugh Jackman had to sneak into associate producer Kevin Feige's office to read the X-Men comics.
– After playing Wolverine for 24 years, Jackman may soon pass the torch.
– Rumors suggest Henry Cavill or a younger actor could be the next Wolverine.
A Look Back to The X-Men Origin
When we reminisce about the Fox-driven early X-Men films, we can't help but play a key role in laying the groundwork for Marvel Studios' future projects. Everyone agrees that the Wolverine character, flawlessly portrayed by Hugh Jackman, was the major protagonist. In fact, he remains so synonymous with Wolverine that picturing someone else in the character seems pretty challenging.
No Comics On-Set Rule and How Jackman Rebelled
Interesting fact alert! Bryan Singer, the man known for bringing X-Men to the big screen, notoriously banned comic books from the set. This rule stemmed from his desire to depict the characters as three-dimensional entities, not just caricatures from the comics. But there was a problem; Hugh Jackman wasn't familiar with X-Men's source material.
This is where Kevin Feige stepped in. Back then, Feige was just an associate producer but had a passion for comics that would later help him rise to high ranks at Marvel Studios. Jackman revealed in a chat with Josh Horowitz that he would often visit Feige's office, filled with comics, posters, and figurines, and ask for guidance on what to read. Feige would then recommend essentials to help Jackman delve deeper into his Wolverine character.
The Search for The New Wolverine
Hugh Jackman has significantly contributed to the Wolverine character and the entire X-Men franchise for approximately 24 years. However, nothing lasts forever, including Jackman's tenure as Wolverine. Now Marvel needs to find a new actor to carry the mantle into the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Henry Cavill appears to be a solid contender for the gamble. Known for his portrayal of Superman, Cavill could breathe new life into the Wolverine character. At 44, he's the perfect blend of maturity and longevity the Marvel bosses would appreciate.
Emerging Talent and Future Direction of X-Men
If not Henry Cavill, Marvel Studios might opt for a fresher face, maybe someone in their late 30s, to ensure the Wolverine character can remain relevant for the next 15 years. Another possible move might be casting a young actor and allowing Dafne Keen to take up her X-23 role. This dynamic would surely make the X-Men franchise more accessible to the MCU.
Welcoming fresh talent will also ensure longevity of X-Men in the MCU as older actors like Jackman have previously pointed out the physical toll of these roles. So, fans, brace yourselves! A brand-new chapter of X-Men might be closer than we think!
