Logan star Hugh Jackman made some
confusing statements this weekend when he gave an interview implying that his final film as Wolverine would be set in a different universe than prior films in the
X-Men franchise.
"When you see the full movie you'll understand," he told Digital Spy.
"Not only is it different in terms of timeline and tone, it's a slightly different universe. It's actually a different paradigm and that will become clear."
Of course, this was surprising to many, especially considering the involvement of Patrick Stewart's
Professor Xavier, who has had an extensive role in the overall story of the franchise. Now, due to some fans being vocal about their confusion,
Logan director
James Mangold (who has known to be quite vigilant in debunking rumours and speculation about the film) took to Twitter to respond.
"[I] Don't think @RealHughJackman said that exactly. Simple fact. We take place in 2029, 5 yrs past anything depicted in XMEN [films]."
That's pretty definitive, but the director also followed up and clarified that Jackman's statement just meant that the team had freedom to do what they wished by setting the film after the events of
Days of Future Past.
"Because we take place after all the other movies, we have freedom. That's all he meant. Breathe."
There you have it: the film will still be set within the very loose continuity parameters set by 20th Century Fox, but don't expect a host of callbacks to previous events and characters when
Logan hits theatres on
March 3, 2017.
In the near future, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hide out on the Mexican border. But Logan's attempts to hide from the world and his legacy are up-ended when a young mutant arrives, being pursued by dark forces.