Elliot Page, the beloved star of the X-Men franchise, has a hidden gem in his filmography that's worth exploring. But here's the twist: it's a superhero movie with a darkly comedic spin!
Page, who portrayed Kitty Pryde in the iconic X-Men films, also took on the role of Libby in James Gunn's 2010 satirical superhero flick, 'Super'. This lesser-known film is a far cry from the mainstream superhero blockbusters, and yet, it has garnered a dedicated cult following.
In a recent podcast appearance, Page reminisced about the unique experience of working with Gunn on this unconventional project. He described the set as a vibrant and collaborative space, where everyone was committed to bringing this quirky story to life. Page's character, Libby, a comic book store clerk turned sidekick, allowed him to embrace a full-fledged, eccentric persona.
But here's where it gets interesting: Page's trust in Gunn's direction was paramount. He felt confident that Gunn would masterfully balance the tone, even when pushing the boundaries of absurdity. This faith in Gunn's vision is a testament to the director's skill, especially considering Gunn's subsequent rise to directing major superhero franchises like 'Guardians of the Galaxy' and 'Superman'.
Gunn, in an earlier interview, praised Page's intellectual understanding of the role, which was crucial given the film's unique style inspired by lesser-known films like Lucas Moodysson's works and 'Ratcatcher'.
Since 'Super', both Page and Gunn have soared to new heights in their careers. Page has since starred in 'X-Men: Days of Future Past' and Netflix's 'The Umbrella Academy', and is set to appear in Christopher Nolan's upcoming epic, 'The Odyssey'. Gunn, meanwhile, has become a powerhouse in the superhero genre, co-leading DC Studios and directing the highly anticipated 'Man of Tomorrow' sequel.
And this is the part most people miss—'Super' is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by fans of offbeat humor and unconventional storytelling. It's a testament to the power of a director's vision and an actor's trust in that vision.
Have you had the pleasure of watching 'Super'? What did you think of this twisted superhero comedy? Share your thoughts, and let's discuss whether this cult classic deserves more mainstream attention!