Marvel is working on a new Wolverine film!

The most famous mutant of the "X-Men" family could soon be returning to the big screen! As Hollywood insider Daniel Richtman revealed on his blog, Marvel is probably working on a new "Wolverine" film.

The film is said to be part of a larger strategy that will focus on several "X-Men projects" in the next phase of the MCU. It is worth noting that Wolverine is not a member of a future "X-Men" team, but an independent character with priority.

It is not yet known whether Hugh Jackman will slip into the iconic role once again. However, it is unlikely to fail due to the star's interest. At the same time, there are still rumors that Dafne Keen, known from "Logan", could take on the role of Laura aka X-23 in the MCU and be developed into a new Wolverine variant in the long term. And of course, there would also be the possibility of recasting the mutant completely, which would also make perfect sense in the context of the so-called "mutant saga".

Regardless of this, Marvel Studios is still working on the long-awaited "X-Men" reboot. This will be directed by "Thunderbolts" director Jake Schreier. Michael Lesslie, on the other hand, is responsible for the screenplay. A start date has yet to be set.

Wolverine on the big screen: all solo films of the iconic Marvel hero at a glance

Hardly any other character from the Marvel universe is as closely associated with an actor as Wolverine with Hugh Jackman. For almost two decades, Jackman shaped the role of the claw-armed mutant and led him not only through several "X-Men" films, but also through three independent solo adventures. These films show different facets of the character – from action-packed comic spectacle to dark character drama.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): The problematic beginning

The first official Wolverine solo film was released in 2009 under the title "X-Men Origins: Wolverine". It was directed by Gavin Hood, with Hugh Jackman once again taking on the lead role. The film was intended to tell Logan's origin story and shed light on his childhood, his relationship with his half-brother Victor Creed (Sabretooth) and his time in the Weapon X program.

The film promised a lot in terms of content, but was only able to partially fulfill expectations. The portrayal of Deadpool in particular drew massive criticism from fans, as did the sometimes weak CGI and a tonally inconsistent screenplay. Despite decent box office results, "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" is now regarded as one of the weaker entries in the "X-Men" series. Nevertheless, the film laid the foundations for later, much more successful solo adventures.

The Wolverine (2013): Realignment with strengths

Four years later, "The Wolverine" was the second solo film. It was directed by James Mangold, who would later also be responsible for Logan. The plot is loosely based on the popular comic series by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller and relocates Logan to Japan.

The film shows an inwardly broken Wolverine suffering from the guilt of his past. Thematically, immortality, honor and loss come to the fore. The quieter, character-centered moments in particular were received positively. The final act, on the other hand, was criticized for relying more on conventional action and partially undermining the tone established previously. Nevertheless, "The Wolverine" represented a significant qualitative improvement and proved that Wolverine can also carry himself outside of an ensemble film.

Logan (2017): A worthy farewell

"Logan" was not only the third Wolverine solo film to be released in 2017, but also Hugh Jackman's farewell to the role – at least for the time being. Once again directed by James Mangold, the film clearly stands out from classic superhero movies. "Logan" is set in a bleak future in which mutants are almost extinct. An aged, physically weakened Wolverine takes care of the dying Professor X when he meets the young mutant girl Laura (X-23). The film is brutal, melancholy and heavily influenced by western and road movie elements.

Critics and fans alike celebrated "Logan". The screenplay, the emotional depth and Hugh Jackman's haunting performance were particularly praised. The film is now regarded as one of the best superhero films of all time and a prime example of how cross-genre comic book adaptations can be.

The legacy of Wolverine

The three Wolverine solo films show a clear development: from a classic, studio-driven action film to a bold, adult character study. While "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" is primarily remembered as a misstep, "The Wolverine" and "Logan" in particular established the character in a new and lasting way. His solo career is proof that superhero films can be far more than just blockbuster entertainment.