The X-Men franchise has long been a cornerstone of superhero cinema, blending action, drama, and social commentary into compelling stories about mutants and their struggle for acceptance.
With the recent release of Deadpool & Wolverine, now is the perfect time to revisit and rank the best X-Men films to date. Here’s our countdown of the top 10 X-Men films, including a review of the latest installment.
10. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Despite its mixed reception, X-Men: The Last Stand brought some memorable moments to the series. Directed by Brett Ratner (whom no one really wanted), the film tackled the “Dark Phoenix” saga and introduced the controversial mutant cure plotline. While not as beloved as its predecessors, it delivered high stakes and significant character arcs.
9. The Wolverine (2013)
Directed by James Mangold, The Wolverine takes Logan to Japan, offering a more personal and introspective look at the character. This film is notable for its exploration of Wolverine’s vulnerability and its stunning action sequences, which set it apart from other entries in the franchise.
8. Deadpool 2 (2018)
Following the success of the first Deadpool film, Deadpool 2 continued the irreverent, fourth-wall-breaking humor that fans loved. Directed by David Leitch, this sequel expanded the universe with the introduction of Cable (Josh Brolin) and delivered even more outrageous action and comedy.
7. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
Though X-Men: Apocalypse received mixed reviews, it’s a visually stunning and ambitious film. Directed by Bryan Singer, the film features the ancient mutant Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac) as the primary antagonist, bringing a sense of grandeur and urgency to the X-Men’s mission to save humanity from destruction.
6. X-Men: First Class (2011)
Directed by Matthew Vaughn, X-Men: First Class rebooted the series with a stylish and fresh take on the origins of the X-Men. The film’s 1960s setting, combined with stellar performances by James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender as the young Professor X and Magneto, respectively, reinvigorated the franchise.
5. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
Combining the original cast with the new, X-Men: Days of Future Past is a time-travel epic that successfully melds different timelines. Directed by Bryan Singer, the film’s ambitious plot and emotional depth, along with standout performances by the ensemble cast, make it a standout in the series.
4. Deadpool (2016)
Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool shattered the mold of traditional superhero films with its R-rated humor, graphic violence, and meta-commentary. Directed by Tim Miller, the film’s unique style and irreverence made it a box office hit and a beloved entry in the X-Men universe.
REELated:
3. X2: X-Men United (2003)
Building on the success of the first film, X2: X-Men United is widely regarded as one of the best sequels in superhero cinema. Directed by Bryan Singer, it delves deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and explores themes of prejudice and acceptance, culminating in an epic battle at Alkali Lake.
2. Logan (2017)
James Mangold’s Logan is a gritty, emotional farewell to Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine. Set in a dystopian future, the film offers a raw and powerful look at the aging hero’s final journey. With its intense action and poignant storytelling, Logan transcends the superhero genre.
1. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
The latest installment, Deadpool & Wolverine, directed by Shawn Levy, combines the best elements of the franchise with a fresh and heartfelt narrative. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s chemistry lights up the screen in this buddy cop-style adventure that balances humor, action, and emotion. The film’s integration into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and its R-rated boldness make it a fitting addition to the top spot.
Deadpool & Wolverine is currently in theaters.
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The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
