Marvel Studios is in discussions with Jake Schreier to helm its highly anticipated X-Men reboot, marking a significant step forward for the iconic mutant franchise within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), according to Deadline. Schreier, known for directing Thunderbolts and the acclaimed series Beef, brings a fresh perspective to the project, which is poised to reintroduce the X-Men to audiences following Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox.
The new X-Men film, written by Michael Lesslie (The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), is in the early stages of development, with no official release date or casting details announced. This reboot aims to integrate the mutant team into the MCU, distinct from Fox’s previous X-Men films, which spanned multiple timelines and casts. The project follows the mutants’ appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine and the success of the animated series X-Men ‘97, signaling Marvel’s intent to revitalize the franchise.
Schreier’s experience with Thunderbolts, a team-up film featuring morally complex characters, aligns with the X-Men’s themes of diversity, conflict, and societal struggle. His work on Beef, which earned critical praise for its nuanced storytelling, suggests he can handle the interpersonal dynamics central to the X-Men narrative. Marvel’s confidence in Schreier reflects its strategy to blend established directors with bold, new visions for its expanding universe.
What’s Next for X-Men in the MCU
The X-Men reboot is just one piece of Marvel’s broader plan to integrate mutants into the MCU. Following the success of Deadpool & Wolverine, which brought mutants like Wolverine and Gambit into the MCU spotlight, Marvel is likely to explore additional mutant-centric projects. The animated X-Men ‘97 series, renewed for multiple seasons, continues to build momentum, potentially setting up storylines or characters that could cross over into live-action. Additionally, upcoming MCU films like Avengers: Secret Wars may feature mutants in pivotal roles, given the multiverse’s narrative flexibility. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has hinted at a long-term vision for the X-Men, suggesting that the reboot will lay the groundwork for a new era of mutant stories, possibly including spin-offs or Disney+ series focused on individual characters or teams like the X-Force.
The X-Men reboot remains a priority for Marvel as it seeks to capitalize on the franchise’s global fanbase while weaving mutants into the MCU’s multiverse saga. Fans are eager for updates on casting and story direction, with speculation swirling about how iconic characters like Wolverine, Storm, and Magneto will be reimagined.
