You Missed It: 2020’s New Mutants Is Better Than Its Reputation
The 2020 film New Mutants arrived in August 2020 after several delays, and it is now available to stream on Disney Plus and to rent on digital platforms. Directed and co-written by Josh Boone, the film stars Blu Hunt, Maisie Williams, Anya Taylor‑Joy, Henry Zaga, Charlie Heaton and Alice Braga.
Release history and box office
New Mutants was originally scheduled for release in 2018, then moved multiple times through 2019 and early 2020. Ultimately, 20th Century Studios released the film in August 2020 during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
At the worldwide box office, the film earned under $50 million. The film’s release schedule and timing were widely reported in trade outlets and press materials at the time.
Plot, setting and themes
The story follows Dani Moonstar, a young Native American mutant who wakes up in a hospital-like facility overseen by Dr. Reyes. The facility is presented as a place where young mutants learn to control their powers.
As the plot proceeds, the group of young mutants deal with past trauma and with the consequences of uncontrolled abilities. The film includes elements typically associated with horror films—such as illusory sequences—and also develops a romantic relationship between Dani Moonstar and Rahne Sinclair.
Cast and characters
The principal cast and their roles are: Blu Hunt as Dani Moonstar, Maisie Williams as Rahne Sinclair, Anya Taylor‑Joy as Illyana Rasputin / Magik, Henry Zaga as Roberto da Costa, Charlie Heaton as Sam Guthrie and Alice Braga as Dr. Reyes.
Illyana Rasputin is depicted wielding a sword and wearing armor in parts of the film, and the narrative shows several interpersonal conflicts and reconciliations among the group.
Production, genre and finale
Josh Boone co-wrote and directed the film. The production mixes young-adult romance with PG‑13 horror elements and superhero action. The climax features a confrontation involving a large creature and a fight sequence led in part by Illyana/Magik.
The film’s tone and genre blend were noted in contemporary coverage, which described the project as distinct from other entries in the Fox X‑Men series because of its horror-forward approach and its focus on teen characters processing trauma.
Where to watch
New Mutants is available to stream on Disney Plus and is also rentable on major digital platforms.
