X Men

Story

The X-Men are a team of mutants, led by Professor X, who fight against prejudice in a society that rejects those who are different. Mutants are a small percentage of the human population, a subspecies born with superpowers. Each of these comic strip stories typically follows the X-Men battling their archnemesis Magneto or resisting government attempts to eliminate the mutant population.

Why we chose it

The X-Men stories have been some of the most popular and influential comic book/movie franchises of all time. They use exciting and fantastical storylines -such as time travel or space travel, warfare, death and resurrection, insanity or destiny - to explore real-world discrimination and underline the importance of embracing difference with an open mind.

Where it came from

Following the huge success of other Marvel titles such as Spider Man, Iron Man and Thor; writer Stan Lee wanted to create a comic series in which the characters were born with superpowers so he did not have to spend time explaining how they acquired them. Lee was keen to encourage acceptance, stating that the X-Men stories ‘have room for everyone, regardless of their race, gender, religion or colour of their skin.’

Where it went next

After its first publication in comic form in 1963, the X-Men franchise became one of Marvel’s most popular and acclaimed series. Iconic characters, such as Wolverine, went on to feature in their own stories.

The X-Men stories have been successfully adapted into TV programmes, animations, live action films, novels and video games.

Associated stories

Many of Marvel’s most idolized storylines, such as The Dark Phoenix Saga and Days of Future Past (both of which have received film adaptations in the last few years), have featured the X-Men.