ALBERTSEN: X-Men franchise remains limited in movies

Movie sequels often rely on the principle of "more is better." Wherein it being a proven measure of upped quality is severely debatable. Often, "more" means sacrificing story to cram in another character rather than actually expanding on the ones that already exists. So where is the balance? The X-Men franchise, in all its incarnations (comic, TV cartoons, film), thrives on the very notion of multiplicity.

Adding and dropping superheroes of varying attributes at a lightning pace is something that has become part of the identity of the series. The comic started in September 1963 with a group of about half a dozen mutants, which has since spread into the hundreds. The basic stories originally revolved around Professor Xavier training and teaching his group of young students to use their powers for the good of humanity. But multiple circulations, off-issue arcs and spin-offs have let the universe grow to something larger than what can be contained by Professor X in an up-state New York boarding school.

The comics become a grand, episodic representation of an expanding world. With the limitless boundaries of pencil and ink, a more galactic feel can be given to the X-Men brand that also sees no worry in the proposition of adding more fuel to the collective creative fire.

This, however, is a roadblock for film. The astronomical cast of the comic is always pared down when it reaches the big screen. Yet through five movies, about two dozen to 30 characters have been introduced and given a bit to chew on. How is this negotiable? It seems to be that the basic plot of "a bunch of good mutants fighting bad mutants" is the only excuse needed. But so many people, each with wildly unique and incredible abilities, would be difficult to keep track of.

There appears to be a wonderful medium of which characters are judged to be interesting enough to follow. In each movie, save for "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," which is a complete focus on the titular character, the general appeal is that each member is equally fascinating. We all want to see Wolverine break out the claws, so of course he's going to get more screen time. But there IS a regulated focus on the dozen or so other members, like Cyclops, Jean Grey, Magneto or Storm.

The movie franchise, by sheer budget and ethics, has to remain at a calculated number to be able to follow, which is something the comic realm has never had to consider. Fascinating as it may be, and with advancements of special effects allowing a much more colossal scope to be captured, there still is a boundary that hasn't been crossed.

The absorption of the concept of the X-Men remains singular in a big budget picture. Because fewer can be made in the amount of time, picking and choosing become a real balancing act. The culprits of not fully understanding that were "X-Men: The Last Stand" and "Wolverine" as they never really attached themselves to the mutants they introduced. Equilibrium in whatever form is observed as a separate entity appropriate for where it's being presented, out of a projector or being struck through your fingers as you turn the page.

spenseralbertsen@dailynebraskan.com