As many fans might know, X-Men: Apocalypse won't be the first time we've seen Psylocke onscreen; the character's first live-action appearance was in X-Men: The Last Stand, albeit with a completely different powerset and no costume. Apocalypse is now offering a different take on the character, with Olivia Munn portraying a far more comic-accurate version in the film. However, despite being an X-Men team member in the comics, Psylocke acts as a Horseman of Apocalypse in this film, and according to Munn, there isn't a whole lot of reason given as to why she joins up with the ancient villain. "I know it’s not really shown in the movie that much. It’s something that I talked to Simon Kinberg and Bryan [Singer] about, saying that we’re not really showing the audience the genesis of who Psylocke is and why she would go with him. But the backstory of Psylocke that I brought into it just in my head that you can’t see on screen was that she lost her entire family. She has these really great abilities, these powers, and she’s been manipulated by many different leaders because she’s been looking for her righteous path and looking for a family again."
It's certainly disappointing to learn that another prominent X-Men character receives a lack of proper motivation and character development, though it's possible we could see this backstory expanded upon in a sequel. Munn elaborated that she sees some similarities between her character and Wolverine. "Much like Wolverine in the comics, he’s got these really amazing abilities and he was manipulated by a lot of people to do their bidding. So that’s what she sees in Apocalypse – yet another maybe righteous leader. She’s looking for someone who will show her the way, and looking for a family."
Do you want to see more of Munn as Psylocke? Sound off below! X-Men: Apocalypse is in theatres now.
About The Author:
Matt is a graduate of the Ryerson University School of Journalism, and has been a fan of superheroes since he picked up his first comic book issue as a child. While he works as a professional musician, Matt has a massive passion for comic books, films and heroes, along with participating in discussion and debate with the CBM community.