The New Mutants (2020) is a supernatural horror film set within the X-Men universe, though it diverges from the traditional superhero genre by focusing more on psychological tension and horror elements.

Plot Summary:

The movie follows five young mutants who are held in a secret facility against their will. They are being experimented on and forced to confront their traumatic pasts while discovering their powers. The mutants, who include characters like Rahne Sinclair (Wolfsbane), Dani Moonstar (Mirage), Illyana Rasputin (Magik), Sam Guthrie (Cannonball), and Roberto da Costa (Sunspot), soon realize that the mysterious doctor overseeing their care is not as benevolent as they first thought. As they start to experience visions and face dark forces, the group must work together to escape and embrace their mutant powers.

Themes and Tone:

Unlike most X-Men films, The New Mutants combines the traditional coming-of-age story with elements of horror. It’s darker and more psychological than typical superhero fare, leaning heavily into themes of fear, identity, and trauma. The characters’ powers are linked to their past trauma, manifesting as personal horrors that they must confront. The tone is unsettling, with the characters trapped in a facility that becomes increasingly claustrophobic as they realize the terrifying truth about their situation.

Characters and Powers:

• Dani Moonstar (Blu Hunt): She is the central character, whose ability to create illusions based on people’s deepest fears and desires leads to some of the more disturbing elements in the film.
• Rahne Sinclair (Maisie Williams): Her mutant power allows her to transform into a wolf, but it is deeply tied to her religious guilt and inner struggles.
• Sam Guthrie (Charlie Heaton): His ability to propel himself through the air at high speeds is one of the more visible powers, but his powers also come with a sense of self-doubt.
• Roberto da Costa (Henry Zaga): He can generate and manipulate solar energy, though his powers are also tied to his personal history.
• Illyana Rasputin (Anya Taylor-Joy): A strong-willed character with the ability to teleport and summon a sword, her powers are more magical in nature and are integral to the darker aspects of the film.

Reception:

The film had a troubled production history, being delayed multiple times and undergoing significant reshoots. Despite the buildup and anticipation for a new angle on the X-Men universe, The New Mutants received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the performances, especially that of Anya Taylor-Joy, and the film’s unique mix of horror and superhero elements, others criticized the pacing and the underdeveloped characters.

Legacy:

While not a major box office success, The New Mutants stands as a unique experiment within the superhero genre, showing that the X-Men universe can extend beyond the typical action-packed spectacles and into darker, more intimate and even horror-infused narratives. It’s a film that appeals to fans of both superhero stories and horror films.

It remains notable for being one of the last films produced under 20th Century Fox before Disney acquired the studio, marking the end of an era for the Fox X-Men universe.