There are currently two officially recognized X-Men origins movies: X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) and X-Men: First Class (2011). While other films feature origin stories for specific X-Men characters, these are the only two explicitly branded and marketed as “X-Men Origins” movies.
Defining “Origins”: A Cinematic Exploration
The term “origins movie” can be interpreted differently depending on the context. In the realm of superhero films, it generally refers to a story that chronicles the early life of a superhero and depicts how they acquired their powers and decided to use them for good (or, in some cases, for evil). The “X-Men Origins” label, however, seems to denote something more specific, focusing on a deeper dive into the character’s pre-X-Men existence and the pivotal moments that shaped them. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurately answering the question at hand.
X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): A Deep Dive into Logan’s Past
This film directly explores the violent and traumatic childhood of James Howlett, later known as Wolverine. It reveals his mutant abilities, his relationship with his half-brother Victor Creed (Sabretooth), and the events that led him to participate in the Weapon X program, where he receives his adamantium skeleton. The film meticulously details the formative experiences that molded Wolverine into the gruff and often tormented character fans know and love.
X-Men: First Class (2011): The Genesis of the X-Men
While not strictly an “origins story” for an individual mutant, X-Men: First Class serves as an origins movie for the entire X-Men team. It depicts the early friendship and eventual ideological split between Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto), showing how they first discovered and began to recruit other mutants. The film chronicles the formation of the original X-Men team and the early days of their struggle against mutant discrimination and threats.
Other Films with Origin Story Elements
It’s important to acknowledge that several other X-Men films feature aspects of origin stories for key characters. These films, however, aren’t considered “X-Men Origins” movies in the same official capacity.
X2: X-Men United (2003): A Glimpse into Wolverine’s Past
While not solely focused on his origin, X2 delves further into Wolverine’s Weapon X past, revealing more about his memories and the experiments he endured. This provides valuable context to his character, but the film primarily focuses on a larger narrative involving mutant registration and government control.
X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014): A Different Timeline, a Similar Struggle
Although a time-travel story, Days of Future Past offers glimpses into the pasts of several characters, including Xavier and Magneto. These flashbacks provide insights into their motivations and the events that led to their respective positions in the future.
X-Men: Apocalypse (2016): Jean Grey’s Emergence
This film showcases the burgeoning powers of Jean Grey and the struggles she faces as she learns to control them. While it doesn’t dedicate its entire narrative to her origin, it’s a significant moment in her character arc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the concept of “X-Men Origins” movies:
FAQ 1: Why is Deadpool not considered an “X-Men Origins” movie, even though it features Wade Wilson’s transformation?
Although Deadpool showcases Wade Wilson’s transformation into the Merc with a Mouth, it deviates significantly from the tone and style of X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Furthermore, the studio didn’t brand it as part of that specific series. Deadpool’s origin is presented more as a darkly comedic and fourth-wall-breaking event, rather than a serious exploration of his past. Marketing and official branding play a key role in defining what constitutes an “X-Men Origins” movie.
FAQ 2: Were there plans for more “X-Men Origins” movies after Wolverine?
Yes, there were initial plans for more “X-Men Origins” movies, including one focusing on Magneto. However, due to the critical reception of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, those plans were eventually scrapped. X-Men: First Class can be seen as a soft reboot and a reimagining of the “origins” concept, focusing on the team as a whole rather than individual character backstories.
FAQ 3: How does X-Men: First Class connect to the other “X-Men Origins” movie, Wolverine?
While both movies explore origin stories, they exist on different timelines within the X-Men cinematic universe. Following Days of Future Past, the timeline became even more complex, making direct connections somewhat loose. X-Men: First Class essentially created a new timeline, allowing for a fresh start to the X-Men saga.
FAQ 4: Will there be any more “X-Men Origins” movies in the future, potentially under Disney/Marvel Studios?
With the X-Men now under the control of Marvel Studios, the future of the franchise is uncertain. While a direct continuation of the “X-Men Origins” series seems unlikely, it’s possible that Marvel might explore individual character origins in future X-Men projects, perhaps through Disney+ series or standalone films. A full reboot of the X-Men franchise is expected.
FAQ 5: What made X-Men Origins: Wolverine so controversial?
X-Men Origins: Wolverine was criticized for several reasons, including its deviations from established X-Men lore, inconsistencies in character portrayals (particularly Deadpool), and generally poor writing and special effects. These factors contributed to its negative reception and ultimately led to the abandonment of further “X-Men Origins” projects in that specific format.
FAQ 6: Is The Wolverine (2013) considered an “X-Men Origins” movie?
No, The Wolverine is not an “X-Men Origins” movie. While it explores aspects of Wolverine’s past and his inner demons, it focuses primarily on his journey in Japan after the events of X-Men: The Last Stand. It’s a standalone Wolverine story, not a dedicated origins tale.
FAQ 7: How does the “X-Men Origins” concept differ from simply having a character’s backstory revealed in a film?
The “X-Men Origins” concept implies a more comprehensive and in-depth exploration of a character’s formative years and the specific events that led them to become the hero or villain they are known as. Simply revealing a character’s backstory, while providing context, doesn’t necessarily qualify a film as an “X-Men Origins” movie.
FAQ 8: Did the success of other superhero origins movies (like Batman Begins or Iron Man) influence the decision to create “X-Men Origins” films?
Yes, the success of other superhero origins movies undoubtedly influenced the decision to create “X-Men Origins” films. Superhero origin stories have proven to be a popular and engaging way to introduce audiences to new characters and deepen their understanding of established ones. Hollywood often follows successful trends.
FAQ 9: Where can I watch X-Men Origins: Wolverine and X-Men: First Class?
Availability depends on your region and streaming services. Check platforms like Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming providers that offer 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios) titles. You can also rent or purchase them digitally through services like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu.
FAQ 10: Are there any comic book series that directly inspired the “X-Men Origins” movies?
Yes and no. While X-Men Origins: Wolverine drew some inspiration from comic storylines regarding Wolverine’s Weapon X experience, it deviated significantly from the source material. X-Men: First Class similarly drew inspiration from various X-Men comic storylines detailing the early days of the team, but also took considerable creative liberties.
FAQ 11: Would a character like Gambit warrant his own “X-Men Origins” movie?
Potentially. Gambit’s backstory is rich with intrigue and could provide ample material for an engaging origins story. However, whether he would receive a dedicated “X-Men Origins” movie specifically is uncertain, especially considering the franchise’s future under Marvel Studios. A different approach to exploring his origins is more likely.
FAQ 12: With the X-Men now part of the MCU, are we likely to see a completely new take on these characters’ origins?
Absolutely. Given Marvel Studios’ track record of adapting comic book source material while also crafting their own unique narratives, it’s highly probable that we will see a fresh and distinct take on the origins of iconic X-Men characters within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This offers an exciting opportunity for them to reimagine these stories for a new generation of viewers. Expect significant changes and updates.