Recent reports from Deadline indicate that Marvel Studios is currently engaging in preliminary discussions with Jake Schreier, the director of Thunderbolts*, to take the helm of the forthcoming X-Men film. While there is no official confirmation at this stage, industry insiders suggest that Schreier emerged as the leading candidate following a successful meeting last week. The screenplay for the upcoming X-Men movie has been crafted by Michael Lesslie, known for The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, with Kevin Feige overseeing production. This development has stirred excitement among fans eager for the franchise’s next chapter.
Since Disney completed its acquisition of 20th Century Fox over five years ago, the anticipation among Marvel aficionados has only grown for the day the X-Men will officially integrate into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The franchise has taken tentative steps towards this integration, including several subtle mentions of mutants. Over time, these hints have led to significant appearances, such as Patrick Stewart reprising his role as Professor X in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Kelsey Grammer as Beast in The Marvels, and, notably, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman as the iconic duo in Deadpool & Wolverine.
Several prominent X-Men characters are slated to appear in the highly anticipated film Avengers: Doomsday. The officially announced cast includes Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier, Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr, Alan Cumming as Kurt Wagner, Rebecca Romijn as Raven Darkhölme, James Marsden as Scott Summers, and Channing Tatum as Remy LeBeau. While there are rumors of additional X-Men characters being part of the cast list, their accuracy remains uncertain. When Marvel eventually unveils a dedicated X-Men film, it is highly likely that a new ensemble of actors will be introduced. Fans can expect clearer insights into Marvel’s future plans following the release of Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.
While Thunderbolts* has generated considerable buzz, its box office performance has not met expectations. Our own Chris Bumbray remarked that the film represents a “significant step-up” compared to Captain America: Brave New World, but he also cautioned that “it’s not the game-changer some of the breathless early junket reviews suggest.” Nevertheless, Bumbray found enjoyment in the film, stating he “had a better time with Thunderbolts than any other Marvel movie (outside Deadpool & Wolverine) in recent memory.” Be sure to check out his full review and share your thoughts on the film as well!
Do you believe Thunderbolts* director Jake Schreier would be an excellent choice for directing the upcoming X-Men film?
