16 most disappointing X-Men movie characters

14. Mystique

Mystique, oh how her potential was squandered. She received her share of attention, but Fox missed the mark entirely with her character. Yes, she had her time with the X-Men in the comics, but the films took an odd turn. Initially, Mystique was a background figure in the first three movies. Then, in the reboot, they mishandled her arc completely.

The films erased Mystique’s connections that were pivotal in the comics. Her relationship with Nightcrawler, her own son, was virtually ignored. Similarly, her dynamic with Destiny and Rogue, which added depth to her character, was tossed aside. Instead, Mystique became a sidekick to Professor X in Apocalypse, following her role as a reluctant ally in First Class. It’s a frustrating letdown.

Let’s not forget that Mystique was never intended to be part of First Class to begin with. She’s a mutant terrorist with layers that deserved more than a side role. Her relationship with Destiny, a fellow mutant, should have been explored, as should her connection to Rogue. And what about the child she abandoned – Nightcrawler? Yeah, I can’t state that enough given Fox hardly cared.

Mystique’s potential was squandered in Fox’s adaption. She’s an anti-villain that deserves her own story in a film where she is the central antagonist. Hopefully, we see that happen in the MCU. Imagine Mystique, Destiny, and Rogue leading to the death of Captain Marvel.