The X-Men franchise boasts a complex cinematic history that spans over two decades. Since their first live-action debut in the 2000 film X-Men, Marvel’s iconic mutants have become cornerstones of the superhero genre, participating in a plethora of movies adapted from comic books. However, with such a lengthy timeline in the spotlight, it’s inevitable that some creative choices have come under scrutiny as time has passed.
The adaptations have left a myriad of decisions—both behind the camera and within the narrative—that excessively aged and failed to resonate well with audiences. Whether it concerns directorial choices, character arcs, or dialogue, these instances have generated considerable discussion. Below, we explore ten notable decisions from the X-Men franchise that haven’t stood the test of time.
10
Manipulating Logan Into Giving Up His Healing Factor
Yashida, The Wolverine (2013)
In The Wolverine, released in 2013, Logan’s journey to Japan unveils a significant part of his past with a character named Yashida. After saving Yashida during World War II, he is summoned under the pretense of receiving a life debt repayment. However, Yashida’s strange request for Logan to transfer his healing capabilities sets off a sequence of events that drastically backfire when he resorts to a parasite to suppress Logan’s powers.
This convoluted manipulation ultimately escalates tensions and leads to Yashida’s demise, illustrating just how detrimental it is to attempt to control someone as powerful as Logan. Yashida’s approach was not only intrusive but tactically poor, earning him an undeserved downfall.
9
Lying To Sabretooth
William Stryker, X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
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Among the villains in the X-Men universe, William Stryker from X-Men Origins: Wolverine features prominently for all the wrong reasons. As the film unfolds, it’s revealed he manipulates Sabretooth into killing members of Team X, ultimately betraying him by going back on a promise to enhance him like Wolverine.
This betrayal inevitably leads to Stryker’s downfall as Sabretooth teams up with Wolverine to challenge their common enemy. Stryker’s choice not only alienated a powerful ally but also ensured his own failure—a testament to how trust and loyalty are pivotal in any coalition.
8
“Do You Know What Happens To A Toad When It’s Struck By Lightning?”
Storm, X-Men (2000)
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In one of the film’s climactic moments, Storm confronts Toad with the infamous line: “Do you know what happens to a toad when it’s struck by lightning?”This line has since become emblematic of the film’s more cringe-worthy moments.
Despite being a punchy moment intended for dramatic flair, decades later, it continues to invite ridicule and has become a symbol of how clunky dialogue can detract from character development and storytelling.
7
Telling Magneto That The Nazis Were “Just Following Orders”
Charles Xavier, X-Men: First Class (2011)
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In a particularly sensitive moment of X-Men: First Class, Charles Xavier tells Magneto that Nazi officers were “just following orders.”This comment starkly illustrates Xavier’s failure to grasp Magneto’s traumatic history with persecution and discrimination.
As a result, this choice exacerbates their already strained relationship, ultimately driving them further apart. Xavier’s lack of empathy effectively alienates his friend, foreshadowing the rift that would continue to develop across the series.
6
Killing Off Major X-Men Heroes
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
The third installment in the X-Men saga brought forth a wave of character deaths, including Cyclops, Professor X, and Jean Grey. The movie also stripped many characters, including Magneto and Mystique, of their mutant abilities.
This decision resulted in a fragmented narrative that required the franchise to re-strategize with prequels, leading to an inconsistent timeline. The deaths and power removals weren’t just unpopular; they muddled the series’ continuity and reputation long-term.
5
Publicly Demonizing Mutants
Senator Robert Kelly, X-Men (2000)
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Senator Robert Kelly emerges as a vocal opponent to mutants in the opening scenes of the first X-Men film, advocating for mutant registration due to fear over their powers. This overt stance brands him a target rather than a protector.
His decision to publicly condemn mutants only strengthens their resolve, ultimately culminating in his demise. Rather than fostering safety, he incited conflict that led to dire consequences for himself and other characters.
4
Not Questioning Bobby’s Sudden Personality Shift
Rogue, X-Men (2000)
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In a pivotal yet minor moment, Rogue finds herself manipulated by Bobby Drake after an incident with Logan. Instead of questioning his sudden drastic shift in behavior, Rogue accepts his guidance, leading her away from the safety of the X-Men.
This moment of uncharacteristic trust allows Magneto to exploit Rogue’s powers, setting off a series of ill-fated events and injuries among her allies. A moment of skepticism could have dramatically altered the story’s trajectory.
3
Turning On Mystique
Magneto, X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
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Magneto’s treatment of Mystique after she sacrifices her abilities to save him demonstrates a grave misjudgment. Dismissing her contribution and reducing her to a powerless state completely alienates a loyal ally.
This unexpected betrayal leads Mystique to turn against him, rallying for revenge and ultimately compromising Magneto’s plans. A show of loyalty could have kept his circle intact, demonstrating the importance of recognizing the value within one’s team.
2
Introducing Gambit
X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
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Gambit’s cinematic debut in X-Men Origins: Wolverine received substantial criticism for being forced and underdeveloped. Taylor Kitsch’s portrayal failed to leave a lasting impression and his limited screen time did a disservice to the character.
Ultimately, this lackluster introduction stymied Gambit’s future in the franchise, pushing the character into a long hiatus before his return to mainstream media, showcasing how introducing beloved characters without proper treatment can backfire.
1
Enslaving And Torturing A Fellow Mutant
Sebastian Shaw, X-Men: First Class (2011)
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In X-Men: First Class, viewers witness Sebastian Shaw’s cruel treatment of young Magneto, forcing him to utilize his powers at the Auschwitz concentration camp. This horrific moment becomes central to Magneto’s transformation into a vengeful character.
Shaw’s decision to control and demean a powerful mutant ultimately seals his own fate, illustrating a critical lesson: contempt and cruelty villainously lead to one’s downfall in unexpected and ironic ways, marking this choice as perhaps the most regrettable in the entire series.
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