5 Must-See X-Men Stories That Deserve the MCU Treatment

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is set to welcome the one franchise that every Marvel enthusiast has longed for – the X-Men! This iconic franchise was once Marvel’s flagship property, selling millions of comics, featuring in animated series, and producing blockbuster films that captivated fans and demonstrated Marvel’s cinematic potential. With a vast array of memorable heroes and villains residing within the X-Men universe, many of Marvel’s most cherished tales bore the title “X-Men.” The X-Men possess immense potential in the MCU, and their arrival could elevate them to the pinnacle of superhero popularity once more.

It’s clear that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) doesn’t simply copy comic book tales, but rather uses them as a source of inspiration. With over six decades of fascinating X-Men stories available, the MCU can draw ideas for contemporary content and fulfill fans’ expectations from Marvel Studios.

Here are five X-Men stories that could translate exceptionally well into Marvel Cinematic Universe films, offering a taste of the unique charm from the original comic books to an even larger fanbase.

X-Men (1963) #1

One of the main discussions surrounding the X-Men in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is how they will handle the team composition. Will they follow a similar path to Fox’s approach, focusing on popular characters like Wolverine and Storm from the get-go? Or might they instead delve into their origins? Some believe that originating with the initial appearance of the team in 1963, specifically issue #1 of X-Men, penned by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, would be a more effective approach.

In this narrative, I was captivated as it unveiled the beginnings of Charles Xavier and his extraordinary team, the X-Men, and set the stage for the enigmatic Magneto. The tale revolves around the X-Men’s valiant efforts to thwart Magneto’s assault on Cape Citadel – a riveting introduction to the series’ protagonists and antagonists.

This initial story could provide invaluable insights into how Magneto is portrayed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). By introducing him first, the MCU would be granted ample time to mold his character according to their creative vision. It serves as an ideal foundation that can effortlessly adapt to contemporary sensibilities and offer a compelling re-imagining of the X-Men’s origins.

X-Men (1991) #1-3

In 1991, the debut issue of X-Men stands as the best-selling comic book ever published, marking the beginning of a thrilling three-part series penned by Chris Claremont and illustrated by Jim Lee. This epic tale significantly alters the dynamic between Magneto and the X-Men for a fresh audience. A band of mutants finds themselves cornered on Magneto’s Asteroid M by S.H.I.E.L.D., re-engaging Magneto in the ongoing struggle between mutants and superheroes. The X-Men leap into action, as the Blue Team clashes with Magneto’s loyal followers, and ultimately confronts Magneto himself. This results in a shocking X-Men versus X-Men faceoff and an unexpected conclusion for Magneto.

This story offers an exceptional portrayal of Magneto’s connection with the X-Men, brimming with thrilling, action-packed sequences. If the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) decides to introduce the X-Men who are already established, this could be the ideal narrative to kick things off. Moreover, the X-Men Blue Team features some of the most iconic mutants ever – Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, and Gambit – making it a delight for viewers to support their beloved characters as they confront Magneto. In essence, it’s a win-win situation.

God Loves, Man Kills

The graphic novel “God Loves, Man Kills,” penned by Chris Claremont and Brent Anderson, is considered one of the most significant comic stories ever written. It presents readers with Reverend Stryker and his fanatical followers known as the Purifiers, who launch a violent campaign against young mutants. This brutal act triggers the X-Men into action, where they find an unexpected ally – Magneto. The tale is monumental in its exploration of societal bigotry and the flaws within organized religion through the lens of the X-Men’s core themes.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is typically recognized more for its humor than its depth. Characters are often witty and sarcastic, and the narratives lean towards action-comedies. However, this shallowness has been a significant challenge for the MCU. To address this issue, “God Loves, Man Kills” offers an opportunity to delve deeper. Superheroes like the X-Men are ideal for social commentary, and it’s high time the MCU ventured in this direction. If executed skillfully, “God Loves, Man Kills” could fundamentally alter our perception of the MCU forever, using the X-Men as they were meant to be utilized.

“The Brood Saga”

The Brood Saga,” a renowned X-Men tale penned by Chris Claremont and Dave Cockrum, showcases the incredible adaptability of the team. This timeless story finds the X-Men enlisted to aid their Shi’Ar Empire allies against an emerging alien danger – the Brood. These formidable creatures share a resemblance with the xenomorphs from the Alien franchise (preceding Disney’s acquisition of it). The X-Men are pushed to their breaking point by this ruthless species, and one character in particular is required to tap into their deepest reserves of strength to turn the tide.

Adapting ‘The Brood Saga’ would push the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) beyond its usual territory, which is a good thing. Superhero horror is deeply rooted in comic book history, and ‘The Brood Saga’ stands out as one of the best instances of it from Marvel. Expanding the MCU’s repertoire is crucial, and ‘The Brood Saga’ fits that bill perfectly. Although the MCU might struggle with the more serious X-Men tales, it has the potential to excel in ‘The Brood Saga’.

“E is for Extinction”

Among the greatest X-Men narratives ever, ‘E is for Extinction’ stands out. This tale marked the relaunch of X-Men as New X-Men, masterfully crafted by the groundbreaking duo of Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. The narrative paved a fresh path for the team, shifting their focus towards teaching and rescuing mutants instead of conventional superhero duties. Yet, a formidable adversary emerges – Cassandra Nova, intent on annihilating everything dearest to Professor X.

Starting with ‘E is for Extinction’ could be an engaging beginning for the X-Men in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Although it lacks the usual superhero attire, it lays a solid foundation for the team’s characteristics. The fact that Cassandra Nova and Wolverine are already familiar to MCU viewers adds appeal. The narrative is simply captivating. This approach would help establish the school setting and introduce key X-Men characters such as Cyclops, Jean Grey, Beast, and Emma Frost. If Marvel prefers the classic costumes for the film, it can be easily adjusted. In my opinion, ‘New X-Men’ is the best Marvel franchise reboot in the past quarter century and could make a fantastic MCU reboot movie.

X-Men films and MCU films are streaming on Disney+.

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2025-03-25 04:11