The X-Men superhero film series has become a household name globally, yet behind this franchise lies a number of intriguing stories and controversies. One notable instance involves Halle Berry, who played Storm in the films. She was reportedly misled by the film crew, especially regarding her contract for the third installment of the series, which had a budget of $210 million (over $5000 per minute).
According to director Matthew Vaughn, he was approached by the X-Men: The Last Stand film crew to take on the directing role. However, one day, while he was in a high-level meeting with the studio, he stumbled upon some surprising information that left him shocked.
Halle Berry misled about the film
At the New York Comic Con event, Vaughn revealed that he had seen a script draft for X-Men 3 on his desk, which was much more extensive than he had anticipated. “I was shocked to discover that the script clearly stated ‘Characters are dying due to a lack of dialogue, and Storm only has her superpowers to defend them,'” Vaughn recounted.
Vaughn found this detail quite interesting and decided to inquire further about it. At that time, the answer he received left him in disbelief: “This is the draft script for Halle Berry. However, she had not signed the contract yet. The script was her wish, but once she signed the contract, I would throw it in the trash.”
Vaughn was quite candid and straightforward about the situation and also expressed his desire to direct X-Men: The Last Stand. “I think I will get in touch if I dare to work with a former Oscar-winning actor,” he added.
Later, Halle Berry did participate in X-Men: The Last Stand, but her role was limited compared to the earlier script drafts. The subsequent film, directed by Brett Ratner, received mixed reviews and was primarily criticized for its quality and lack of substance. Vaughn, on the other hand, returned in 2011 with X-Men: First Class, which significantly contributed to the franchise’s success both critically and at the box office.
