"X-Men: Apocalypse" has yet to be released in theaters, this May, but there are already rumors of what its sequel could tackle in terms of key plot points and events. According to a report from Heroic Hollywood, the sequel to "X-Men: Apocalypse" could deal with a re-telling of the Dark Phoenix storyline.
Fans of the film franchise will recall that this storyline was already adapted in "X-Men: The Last Stand." However, it is pointed out in the report that the events of "X-Men: First Class" and "X-Men: Days of Future Past" rewrite the timeline, allowing the filmmakers to adapt the future storylines again in a different manner.
The report also cites an IGN interview with producer Simon Kinberg, who stated, "I think everything that hasn't been told from 'First Class' and 'Days of Future Past' is up for grabs going forward, so it would absolutely be a story we could tell in a different way."
A report from Entertainment Weekly also gives further credence to the rumors as director Bryan Singer confirmed that in "X-Men: Apocalypse," the young Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) is aware of something dark growing within her. It is hinted that in this alternate timeline, Professor Xavier (James McAvoy) no longer supresses the Dark Phoenix entity, allowing it to reveal itself much earlier than before.
Singer also explained that the seeds of this storyline will be planted in "X-Men: Apocalypse," hinting that there will be scenes showcasing how powerful Jean Grey really is and that she may already be harnessing the powers of the Phoenix in some shape or form, leading to the sequel film, which will see the Phoenix completely take over her mind.
At this point the studios have not yet given any official word regarding a future set of "X-Men" films, although they are moving forward with the spin-offs such as the "New Mutants," "Gambit" and "Deadpool 2" films. It is widely speculated that a new "X-Men" movie will shift its focus to the younger group, which includes Jean Grey.
"X-Men: Apocalypse" opens in theaters on May 27.
