X-Men Star Marsden Welcomes Romantic Role

The Hollywood actor says he thinks The Best Of Me will appeal to people who don't want to see films based on comic books.

What would you do if after 20 years you were reunited with your first love? That's just what the latest Nicholas Sparks film adaptation, The Best Of Me, explores.

"This film is about second chances," explained James Marsden, who plays Dawson opposite Michelle Monaghan's Amanda in the movie.

"I'm definitely a romantic and think there are reasons for everything."

The actor is no stranger to Sparks' work after starring in the box office hit The Notebook alongside Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams.

But the X-Men star said he was keen to work on something that wasn't a comic book or action film.

Marsden (second L) with Channing Tatum, Robert Pattinson and Eddie Redmayne

"It's nice to see a script come along that's about humanity and relationships. It's unabashedly romantic and that's appealing to a lot of people," he said.

But does he believe in The One?

"Some people believe there is just one person out there for them in the world. I don't subscribe to that - love is more complex. You have the capacity to feel different feelings for people at different points in your life," he said.

On the controversial subject of whether men age better than women, Marsden agreed that women in Hollywood are under more pressure.

He added: "But age is a beautiful thing. Lines on your face tell the story of where you’ve been in your life. If you fight it then it becomes less attractive, you know what I mean?"

And on his possible return to the X-Men films, Marsden told Sky News: "The actors are usually the last people to know about the plans for the characters. If they do write me into the next film, then yes, I’m definitely open to that call."

The Best Of Me is in cinemas from 17 October.