Why Marvel’s Apocalypse Deserves a Joker-Style Origin Movie in 2026
Marvel’s Apocalypse is one of the X-Men’s most complex villains, yet he’s never had a film that truly explores his origins. Discover why a standalone movie in the vein of Joker could finally do justice to this ancient mutant’s story.
For years, Apocalypse has stood as one of the most formidable adversaries in the X-Men universe, yet his story has never been given the depth it deserves on the big screen. As Marvel ’s first mutant, Apocalypse’s philosophy is rooted in survival of the fittest, and his history stretches back thousands of years. Despite his significance, he remains overshadowed by other villains who have received more nuanced portrayals.
Apocalypse’s Untapped Potential for a Standalone Film
Apocalypse’s origins are steeped in ancient Egypt, where he was known as En Sabah Nur—a figure whose legend is intertwined with celestial beings. Exploring his backstory would not only enrich the X-Men mythos but also provide a fresh perspective on the roots of mutantkind. A film dedicated to his rise could transport audiences to 3600 BC, revealing how his beliefs in evolution and power shaped his destiny.
Much like the impact Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker had on audiences, a character-driven exploration of Apocalypse could break new ground for Marvel. The opportunity to see a villain’s journey unfold, complete with high-stakes visual effects and a complex moral landscape, is something superhero films rarely attempt. The time is right for a bold, villain-focused narrative that challenges the traditional hero-centric formula.
Reflecting on X-Men: Apocalypse and Its Shortcomings
Oscar Isaac’s portrayal of Apocalypse in the 2016 film promised a fresh take, especially following the success of X-Men: Days of Future Past. However, the movie, directed by Bryan Singer, failed to deliver on its potential. Instead of delving into the character’s rich history and motivations, the film reduced him to a generic antagonist with a world-ending agenda that felt derivative and uninspired.
The cast boasted big names like James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, and Sophie Turner, but even their performances couldn’t save the film from mixed to negative reviews. The story, set primarily in 1983, saw Apocalypse awaken and attempt to reshape the world by recruiting powerful mutants as his horsemen. Despite the high stakes, the film struggled to capture the depth and complexity that makes Apocalypse such a compelling figure in the comics.
The Case for a New Direction
With the X-Men poised to enter the Marvel Cinematic Universe, there’s a unique chance to revisit Apocalypse’s story with the care and attention it deserves. A standalone film could finally explore his ancient origins, his ideology, and the events that led him to become one of the most feared mutants in history. Audiences are ready for a villain’s tale that goes beyond surface-level conflict and dives into the heart of what makes a character truly unforgettable.
X-Men: Apocalypse is available to stream on Disney+ in the U.S.
Joker is available to stream on HBO Max in the U.S.
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