What’s wrong with Professor X in Logan? This question has intrigued fans of the X-Men franchise since the release of Logan in 2017. The film, directed by James Mangold, serves as a poignant farewell to the iconic character, Hugh Jackman, who played the role of Logan/Wolverine for nearly two decades. However, the depiction of Professor Charles Xavier in Logan raises several questions about his character and the impact of his actions on the future of the X-Men.
In Logan, Professor X is portrayed as a much different character than the one we’ve come to know and love over the years. He is depicted as a broken man, struggling with the consequences of his actions and the weight of his responsibilities. This shift in character raises the question of what exactly is wrong with Professor X in Logan.
One of the primary issues with Professor X in Logan is his physical and mental decline. The film shows that his powers have significantly diminished, leaving him vulnerable and dependent on others. This vulnerability is a stark contrast to the confident and powerful Professor X we’ve seen in previous films. The loss of his powers has not only affected his ability to lead the X-Men but also his overall well-being, leading to a more vulnerable and human portrayal of the character.
Another significant problem with Professor X in Logan is his struggle with his own identity. Throughout the film, he grapples with the idea of whether he is still the Professor X he once was or if he has become something else entirely. This internal conflict is evident in his interactions with Logan, who is the only person he can truly rely on. The struggle with identity is a crucial aspect of Professor X’s character in Logan, as it highlights the consequences of his past actions and the burden he carries.
Furthermore, Professor X’s role in the X-Men’s history is called into question in Logan. In previous films, he was the leader of the X-Men, a man who fought for a world where mutants and humans could coexist peacefully. However, in Logan, he is portrayed as a man who has given up on that dream. This shift in his character is a reflection of the world’s current state, where prejudice and discrimination against mutants have only intensified. The broken Professor X in Logan serves as a reminder of the failures of his past and the hopelessness of his present.
Lastly, the film explores the idea that Professor X’s actions may have inadvertently contributed to the problems he faces. His obsession with finding a cure for mutation, as seen in X-Men: The Last Stand, ultimately led to the creation of the Mutant Registration Act and the suffering of countless mutants. This revelation forces viewers to reconsider the moral implications of Professor X’s actions and the consequences they have on the lives of others.
In conclusion, what’s wrong with Professor X in Logan is a multifaceted issue that encompasses his physical and mental decline, his struggle with identity, the failure of his dream for a peaceful coexistence, and the consequences of his past actions. This portrayal of the character challenges fans to reevaluate their understanding of Professor X and the role he plays in the X-Men universe. As Logan comes to a close, it leaves us with a profound question: What would it take for Professor X to truly heal and find peace in his final moments?
