Director Vaughn Signs on for Sequel to X-Men First Class

In a 2011 summer season littered with super hero films such as Captain America, Thor, and Green Lantern, I thought Director Matthew Vaughn's X-Men: First Class stood far ahead of the pack. Unfortunately, this is Hollywood where well-reviewed big budget films often don't get sequels if they don't bring in the green. With a budget of $160 million, First Class had moderate success hauling in $148 million domestically and $353 million worldwide.

Despite its slightly underwhelming performance domestically, Fox made the decision (rightly) to go forward with the sequel. They've already made a step in the right direction by signing director Matthew Vaughn for the next film. Aside from Simon Kinberg writing the script and Bryan Singer returning as producer, there are no casting details at this time.

It gratifies me that Fox is moving ahead with a sequel and that Vaughn is returning as director. I feel like his guidance was the impetus for making First Class a success. Having said that this film will fail miserably if James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender don't return as Professor X and Magneto respectively. Both actors nailed their respective parts and I can't imagine replacing either actor, especially Fassbender. Fassbender's slick, almost James Bond-esque portrayal of Magneto carried First Class. His intensity permeates the entire film.

With films like Shame, Haywire, Jane Eyre, A Dangerous Method, and the upcoming Ridley Scott sci-fi film Prometheus, Fassbender is hotter than the surface of the sun right now. Consequently, his agent will likely ask for a significant increase in salary. With limited returns on the first film however, I wonder to what extent the second film's budget will be impacted. I would hope that Fox doesn't get into a pissing contest with Fassbender about money. To quote Teddy KGB from Rounders Fox better "pay that man his money."

Aside from the returning cast members, my main interest lies in the time frame this film will be set in. The first film revolved around the Cuban Missile Crisis in '62, so where does the sequel go? My hunch is that it will be set sometime in the early to mid-70s. While there is the possibility Vietnam may be involved I highly doubt it. That might be just too much of a hot button topic to address. My respect for Fox would increase immensely if they made the bold choice to involve Vietnam however.

Officially there is no start date for the project but look for casting announcements soon now that Vaughn has signed on to direct.