MovieChat Forums > Orphan Black (2013) Discussion > Have you noticed parallels with Mr Sinis...

Have you noticed parallels with Mr Sinister (19thC scientist in X-men)?


I was reading an article about the end credit scene of the most recent X-Men movie, on ScreenRant.com, and came across this juicy morsel:


What Is Essex Corp?

So what is Essex Corp. in the X-Men universe? That’s a company owned by Nathan Essex, who eventually becomes the super villain known as Mr. Sinister (seen above). In the comics, Essex is a scientist from 19th century Victorian London who is obsessed with self-improvement and evolution without any regards for moral questions. In order to extend his own life and make himself more powerful, he experiments on mutants, even going so far as to create stronger and more powerful ones by any means necessary. This includes cloning and even manipulating other characters to give birth to more powerful mutants.
cough Kira cough

Has anyone else spotted the parallel between this character and Westie?

If you're up to speed on your Shakespeare you'll remember that Westmorland and Essex are names of places in England, and that the Earl of each of these places have featured in his historical plays. Pretty sure there's a connection in there somewhere. Also, apparently the title of "Earl of Westmorland" was created twice, by two separate kings after 220 years

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This is interesting. It would be nice to find out who on the OB crew came up with the name Westmoreland and if they are aware of the Xmen charachter Essex.

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While I love the X-Men and the movies, I never got that deep in to it, so I'm glad you put this out there. It's extremely interesting and I wonder if there's some relevance to it?! Thanks for sharing!!!!

"This organism and derivative genetic material is restricted intellectual property."

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Yes, the similarity is definitely there. I'm not entirely sure that this is intentional, but if it is, it would be interesting to hear the writers explain how they chose to use this as an influence for their show.

Also, I've heard tell that Bryan Cranston is very interested in playing Mr Sinister on screen someday. That would be pretty great!

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Why don't you take a pill, bake a cake, go read the encyclopaedia.

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