During a press conference just a few days before the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed that Jake Schreier, the director of Thunderbolts*, will helm the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) highly anticipated X-Men reboot. In a subsequent interview with The Playlist, Schreier elaborated on the project, revealing that the new film will be “recognizably different” from the iconic franchise previously led by Hugh Jackman, while embracing the expansive and complex essence of the X-Men comics.
Schreier’s comments signal a fresh approach to the beloved mutant saga, which has captivated audiences since the release of the first X-Men film in 2000. When asked if the MCU’s take would diverge from the earlier Fox-produced franchise, Schreier affirmed, “Yeah, I think that’s fair to say.” He hinted at the ambitious scope of the project, noting the opportunity to “explore all of the ideas that are inherent to that rich source material, but also at the scale inherent to the source material.” This suggests a cinematic vision that aims to capture the grandeur and depth of the X-Men comics, which are renowned for their intricate narratives and diverse ensemble of characters.
The director underscored the inherent complexity of the X-Men universe, describing it as “inherently interesting and complex material.” He highlighted the internal conflicts and identity struggles of the mutant characters, which resonate with broader themes of acceptance and belonging. “The core idea of what X-Men is involves complexity,” Schreier explained. “It’s an incredible opportunity with super interesting characters and [much] internal conflict. These characters are wrestling with their identity and place in the world—that’s inherently interesting and complex material”.
Feige provided further insight into the reboot’s direction, revealing that the MCU’s X-Men will adopt a “youth-focused” perspective. This shift in tone and casting could distinguish the new film from the more mature, battle-hardened portrayals of mutants in the previous franchise, which spanned films like X-Men: Days of Future Past and Logan. While specific details about the plot and casting remain under wraps, Feige’s comments suggest a reinvention that prioritizes younger characters, potentially introducing a new generation of mutants to lead the franchise.
The X-Men reboot marks a pivotal moment for the MCU as it integrates the mutant mythology following Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019. The earlier X-Men films, anchored by Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine, featured a roster of iconic characters, including Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier, Ian McKellen as Magneto, and James Marsden as Cyclops. Many of these actors, including Kelsey Grammer (Beast), Alan Cumming (Nightcrawler), and Rebecca Romijn (Mystique), are set to reprise their roles in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, slated for release in 2026. Additionally, Jackman returned as Wolverine in 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine, bridging the old and new eras of X-Men storytelling. However, the reboot’s distinct approach indicates that these familiar faces may not dominate the new narrative, paving the way for fresh interpretations of the mutant team.
How the new X-Men heroes will be introduced into the MCU remains a subject of speculation. Schreier’s vision, coupled with Feige’s emphasis on a youth-focused tone, suggests a narrative that could explore the origins of a new mutant team, possibly set in a different corner of the MCU’s multiverse. This approach aligns with Marvel’s recent trend of reimagining classic properties while maintaining ties to its interconnected universe.
Meanwhile, fans can experience Schreier’s directorial work in Thunderbolts*, which is now available to buy or rent on premium video-on-demand (PVOD) platforms. The film, featuring a team of antiheroes and reformed villains, showcases Schreier’s ability to handle complex ensemble casts—a skill that will undoubtedly inform his work on the X-Men reboot.
As Marvel Studios prepares to redefine the X-Men for a new era, Schreier’s comments offer a tantalizing glimpse into a project that promises to honor the comics’ legacy while forging a distinct path forward. With its focus on scale, complexity, and youthful energy, the X-Men reboot is poised to be a landmark addition to the MCU.
