# Rebooting the X-men: Lessons the MCU Can Learn From Past Mistakes
As the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) gears up to introduce the X-Men, it’s crucial to learn from the successes and failures of previous adaptations. While the original 20th Century Fox franchise had its moments, there’s ample room for advancement. Here’s how the MCU can create a definitive X-Men cinematic experience.
## Share the Spotlight: “X-Men” Is Plural
The original X-Men films often prioritized Wolverine and the Professor X/Magneto dynamic, overshadowing other team members. Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine became a constant presence, even popping up in cameos where he wasn’t necessarily needed.Similarly, the focus on Professor X and Magneto, whether portrayed by Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen or James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender, dominated the narrative.
The MCU must avoid this trap. The X-Men are an ensemble, and each member deserves their moment to shine. The MCU needs to develop a strategy to avoid focusing to much on one character or dynamic.
## Quality Over Quantity: Costumes, Characters, and Story
The MCU cannot afford to compromise on quality.The original franchise often faltered in its character designs, with the X-Men clad in uninspired black leather costumes. Wolverine didn’t even get a comic-accurate suit until *Deadpool & Wolverine*.
The MCU should prioritize well-designed, comic-accurate costumes. The MCU doesn’t need to introduce every mutant at once. The 2000 *X-Men* movie worked because it focused on a smaller team. The MCU should cast carefully,write compelling stories,and ensure the X-men look the part.## Dos and Don’ts for the MCU’s X-Men
Here’s a recap of key considerations for the MCU:
| Aspect | What to Do | What to Avoid |
|—————-|—————————————————|————————————————–|
| Character focus | Share the spotlight among the team. | Over-relying on Wolverine or the Xavier/Magneto dynamic. |
| Costumes | Embrace comic-accurate, high-quality designs.| Generic or uninspired outfits. |
| Team Size | Keep the initial team relatively small. | Overcrowding the screen with too many mutants. |
| Story Quality | Prioritize character growth and engaging plots. | Sacrificing narrative for spectacle. |
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
