Synopsis

Mutants face a divisive new possibility when scientists develop a treatment that can suppress the mutant gene. While Professor Xavier's X-Men debate whether mutation is a gift or a burden, Magneto gathers an army to oppose the cure. At the same time, Jean Grey returns with the destructive Phoenix persona, forcing the X-Men into a devastating conflict involving their former ally.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film combines material from two major X-Men comic storylines: "The Dark Phoenix Saga" and "Gifted," the latter involving the mutant cure.

• With a reported budget of $210 million, it was the most expensive film ever made at the time of its 2006 release.

• The production changed significantly after Bryan Singer left to make *Superman Returns*. Matthew Vaughn was then hired, but departed before filming began, and the project moved forward under a compressed schedule.

• Filming took place largely in Vancouver. Hatley Park and Royal Roads University served as locations for Xavier's school, while a lumber mill near the Fraser River stood in for Alcatraz Island.

• Digital de-aging effects were used for the opening flashback, making Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen appear younger.

• X-Men comic-book creator Stan Lee and longtime writer Chris Claremont appear briefly in the opening sequence as neighbors of Jean Grey.

• An extra scene after the credits reveals that Professor Xavier's consciousness survived by transferring into the body of a comatose patient.

• Kelsey Grammer was so interested in playing Beast that he auditioned for the role, reportedly the first audition he had attended in more than two decades.