What should Marvel Studios do with the X-Men franchise if the Fox deal goes through: reboot, continue, or retcon?

Introduction

The upcoming collaboration between Marvel Studios and 20th Century Fox Studios has brought a significant shift in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With the Fox deal now a reality, the future of the X-Men franchise is becoming a topic of intense debate within the fan community. This article explores the potential paths Marvel Studios could take: a complete reboot, continuing as is, or a retcon approach.

A Reboot: An Almost Guaranteed Path

Given the current state of the X-Men films, a reboot appears almost inevitable. The X-Men films, particularly Apocalypse, have been financial setbacks for Disney. The continuity issues are now a major concern, with Professor X and Magneto seemingly aging magically overnight to become elderly within a short span of time. This inconsistency in the narrative has led to a negative impact on fan reception and box office performance.

The Potential Impact of Deadpool III

Deadpool III, originally titled Deadpool X by Hugh Jackman, has generated significant interest. The film is set to star Hugh Jackman as Wolverine and may also feature Owen Wilson as Morbius from the TVA. This movie could serve as a bridge for introducing the X-Men’s origins and characters into the MCU. With the Fox-owned universe potentially merging with the MCU, Deadpool’s involvement with other X-Men characters, particularly Wolverine, could set the stage for a more grounded and integrated storyline.

Strategic Considerations and Contracts

Disney’s strategy involves the gradual integration of Fox properties into the MCU, carefully considering the expiration of actor contracts. For instance, Patrick Stewart appeared in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as a variant of Professor X with the Fox-owned theme song, signifying the cable ties between the MCU and Fox’s properties. However, there is also a need to strategically re-cast actors to maintain the integrity of the characters within the larger MCU narrative.

Proposed Strategy: Natural Integration

While a reboot is more or less a certainty, Marvel Studios can take a more strategic approach to the natural integration of the X-Men characters into the MCU. Here’s a proposed strategy:

Phased Reboot: Begin with a limited reboot focusing on key X-Men characters, such as Cyclops and Jean Grey, to establish a clear and consistent timeline. This reboot can serve as a foundation for the new X-Men films. Seamless Integration: Once the reboot is in place, Marvel can gradually introduce these characters into the MCU in a way that feels organic and natural. This can be achieved through crossover events or interconnected storylines that blend seamlessly with existing MCU narratives. Extending the Timeline: Give the X-Men a longer timeline in the MCU, allowing their origin stories to feel more authentic and grounded, rather than abrupt and disconnected from the rest of the universe.

Conclusion

The X-Men franchise, once on the verge of collapse, now finds itself at a unique opportunity to be reborn within the expansive framework of the MCU. While a reboot seems the most likely path, prioritizing a natural and organic integration of these characters could lead to a more sustainable and beloved franchise. Marvel Studios has the creative freedom to make these changes, ensuring that the X-Men remain a vital and integral part of the superhero landscape.