The X-Men franchise has captivated audiences with its diverse range of movies over the years. From thrilling action sequences to complex character development, the X-Men movies have become a cornerstone of the superhero genre. But which are the best X-Men movies ranked? Which films have truly stood out among the rest?
In this article, we dive into the world of mutants and uncover the top contenders in the X-Men franchise. Get ready to discover the highest rated X-Men movies, the best ranked films that have left audiences in awe, and the top X-Men movies that have solidified their place in cinematic history.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore the best X-Men movies ranked, showcasing the top contenders in the franchise.
- Discover the highest rated X-Men movies that have left a lasting impact.
- Uncover the best ranked X-Men films that have impressed audiences worldwide.
- Delve into the top X-Men movies that have solidified their place in cinematic history.
- Prepare to be amazed by the exceptional storytelling and thrilling action in these remarkable films.
X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) – A Time-Splitting Classic
X-Men: Days of Future Past is widely regarded as one of the best X-Men movies ever made. Featuring an all-star cast, including Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, and Michael Fassbender, the film takes audiences on a thrilling journey through time.
In this captivating installment, the X-Men face a desperate attempt to change the course of history and prevent a catastrophic future. With its intricate plot and compelling storytelling, Days of Future Past seamlessly weaves together the original X-Men films and the prequel series, bridging the gap between past and present.
“The future is always changing in the X-Men universe, and Days of Future Past showcases this concept brilliantly. It’s an exciting blend of action, drama, and suspense, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.” – Roger Ebert
This time-travel adventure not only offers a thrilling storyline but also highlights the complex relationships between the mutants, as they must put aside their differences to save both the past and the future. With breathtaking visual effects and intense action sequences, the film keeps viewers captivated from start to finish.
A Stellar Cast
X-Men: Days of Future Past boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, with each actor delivering powerful performances that breathe life into their beloved characters.
- Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, the iconic and indomitable mutant with a heart of gold.
- James McAvoy as Charles Xavier, the empathetic leader of the X-Men.
- Michael Fassbender as Erik Lensherr, also known as Magneto, a formidable mutant with a complex past.
- Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique, a shape-shifting mutant torn between her loyalty to Xavier and her desire for mutant liberation.
The chemistry and depth of the cast’s performances elevate the film, adding emotional resonance to the action-packed sequences.
The Impact on the Franchise
X-Men: Days of Future Past not only ranks among the top-rated X-Men movies but also had a significant impact on the overall franchise. It rejuvenated the series by merging the original X-Men films with the prequel series, setting the stage for future installments and expanding the X-Men universe.
The film’s critical and commercial success paved the way for further exploration of character-driven storylines and complex narratives within the X-Men cinematic universe.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Engaging time-travel storyline | Some characters lack development |
| All-star cast delivers exceptional performances | Plot may be confusing for newcomers to the franchise |
| Seamless blending of original X-Men films and prequel series | Not all mutants receive equal screen time |
| Visually stunning special effects |
Logan (2017) – The End of an Era
Logan marks the final performance of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, one of the most beloved characters in the X-Men universe. This gritty and emotionally charged film explores the aging hero’s journey as he grapples with his fading powers and faces new challenges. The poignant storyline, exceptional acting, and intense action sequences make Logan a standout film in the X-Men franchise.
Logan is widely regarded as one of the highest rated X-Men movies and ranks among the top X-Men films according to fan rankings. The film’s darker tone and realistic portrayal of aging superheroes resonated with audiences, offering a fresh and compelling take on the X-Men universe.
Directed by James Mangold, Logan received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and stellar performances. Hugh Jackman delivers a career-best performance, showcasing both the vulnerability and ferocity of Wolverine. The film also introduces a new character, Laura Kinney a.k.a. X-23, who brings an added layer of depth to the story.
One of the defining aspects of Logan is its intense and visceral action sequences. The film pushes the boundaries of the superhero genre, presenting brutal and realistic fight scenes that highlight the physical toll of Wolverine’s powers.
“Logan is a masterful blend of character-driven drama and superhero action. It’s a fitting conclusion to Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine and a testament to the enduring appeal of the X-Men franchise.”
The film’s success extends beyond the X-Men fanbase, with Logan being recognized as a standout film in its own right. It received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, further solidifying its place as one of the top X-Men movies.
Logan (2017) – Key Points:
- Final performance of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine
- Gritty and emotionally charged storyline
- Exceptional acting and intense action sequences
- Highly rated and ranked among the top X-Men films
- Received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations
| Rank | Film | Director |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Logan | James Mangold |
| 2 | X-Men: Days of Future Past | Bryan Singer |
| 3 | X2: X-Men United | Bryan Singer |
| 4 | X-Men: First Class | Matthew Vaughn |
| 5 | Deadpool | Tim Miller |
X2: X-Men United (2003) – True Action
X2: X-Men United is often regarded as the film that elevated the X-Men franchise to new heights. It brings true action and excitement to the series, with a gripping story that delves deeper into the characters and their struggles. The film showcases the ensemble cast’s strengths and features standout moments that have become iconic in the X-Men cinematic universe.
In X2: X-Men United, director Bryan Singer delivers an electrifying sequel that ups the ante in terms of action and stakes. The film continues the story of the mutant superhero team as they face a new threat that puts both mutants and humans in danger.
The action sequences in X2 are some of the most memorable in the X-Men franchise. From the thrilling opening scene at the White House to the epic battle at Alkali Lake, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced and high-octane action. The visual effects are top-notch, further immersing viewers in the superhero world.
What sets X2 apart is its strong character development. The film explores the personal struggles and relationships of the mutant characters, adding depth and emotional resonance to the story. Wolverine, played by Hugh Jackman, takes center stage as his past is further explored, and his internal conflicts are brought to the forefront.
“X2: X-Men United is a thrilling and action-packed ride that builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor. It successfully expands the X-Men universe while delivering a compelling story and captivating performances.” – Marvel Movie Reviews
X2: X-Men United received critical acclaim upon its release, with praise for its impressive cast, thrilling action, and strong storytelling. It remains one of the highest-rated X-Men movies to date, solidifying its place as a fan favorite in the franchise.
| X2: X-Men United (2003) | Director: | Bryan Singer |
|---|---|---|
| Screenplay: | Michael Dougherty, Dan Harris, David Hayter, Zak Penn, Bryan Singer | |
| Starring: | Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, Famke Janssen, James Marsden, Rebecca Romijn, Brian Cox | |
| Genre: | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi | |
| Rating: | PG-13 |
Overall, X2: X-Men United stands out as one of the best ranked X-Men films in the franchise. Its thrilling action, strong character development, and iconic moments make it a must-watch for fans of the series.
X-Men: First Class (2011) – A Return to Form
X-Men: First Class is a refreshing return to form for the franchise after the disappointing X-Men: The Last Stand and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Set in the 1960s, the film explores the early years of Professor X and Magneto and introduces a new generation of mutants.
With a talented cast led by James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender, X-Men: First Class revitalizes the series with its strong script, stylish direction, and powerful performances.
The film takes us back to a time when Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr were allies and before their paths diverged, leading to the formation of the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.
“We have it in us to be the better men,” says Professor X, played brilliantly by James McAvoy. “We already are.”
Director Matthew Vaughn expertly blends thrilling action sequences, character development, and emotional depth, creating a film that satisfies fans of the original trilogy while also appealing to new audiences.
The chemistry between McAvoy and Fassbender, who portrays the complex Magneto, is electrifying. Their performances captivate viewers as they navigate the complexities of their friendship, ideology, and the temptation of their powers.
X-Men: First Class showcases the origins of beloved characters such as Mystique, played by Jennifer Lawrence, and sets the stage for future installments.
With its engaging storyline, stunning visuals, and a focus on character-driven drama, X-Men: First Class reminds us why we fell in love with the X-Men franchise in the first place.
This film is a testament to the enduring appeal of these iconic superheroes and their ability to inspire audiences with their struggles, triumphs, and the themes of acceptance and equality that lie at the heart of the X-Men universe.
X-Men (2000) – The Beginning of a Phenomenon
From its explosive debut, X-Men (2000) marked the dawn of a new era for superhero movies. Directed by Bryan Singer, this groundbreaking film catapulted the X-Men franchise into the spotlight and paved the way for the superhero movie boom we know today. Led by the stellar performances of Patrick Stewart as Professor X and Ian McKellen as Magneto, X-Men introduced audiences to the captivating world of mutants and their struggles for acceptance in society.
The film’s success laid the foundation for a series of exhilarating sequels, spinoffs, and a cinematic universe that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. X-Men not only showcased the potential of the franchise, but it also set the standards for future superhero adaptations, with its blend of thrilling action, thought-provoking themes, and compelling characters.
“Bryan Singer’s X-Men (2000) was a revolutionary film that brought Marvel’s mutants to the big screen with style, substance, and a deep respect for the source material. It kickstarted a cinematic universe that has captivated fans for over two decades.” – Movie Reviewer
Throughout the film, Singer skillfully weaves a narrative that explores the complexities of mutant-human relations, touching upon themes of discrimination, identity, and the struggle for equal rights. By highlighting the inherent humanity of its mutant characters, X-Men invites viewers to empathize with their struggles and challenges societal preconceptions.
One of the standout elements of X-Men is its ensemble cast, which brings together a roster of iconic characters from the comics. From Wolverine’s (Hugh Jackman) brooding intensity to Storm’s (Halle Berry) commanding presence, each actor delivers a nuanced performance that breathes life into their respective mutants.
Let’s take a closer look at the main cast of X-Men:
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Professor X | Patrick Stewart |
| Magneto | Ian McKellen |
| Wolverine | Hugh Jackman |
| Storm | Halle Berry |
| Rogue | Anna Paquin |
| Cyclops | James Marsden |
| Mystique | Rebecca Romijn |
With its gripping storyline, memorable characters, and groundbreaking visual effects, X-Men remains a fan-favorite and a testament to the enduring power of the mutants’ legacy. It paved the way for the X-Men franchise to become one of the most beloved and successful superhero franchises of all time.
Continue reading our article to discover the other top-ranked X-Men movies that have left an indelible mark on both the superhero genre and popular culture.
Deadpool (2016) – A Game-Changing Spinoff
Deadpool shattered conventions and redefined the superhero genre with its unique blend of irreverent humor, graphic violence, and unconventional storytelling. Starring Ryan Reynolds as the iconic anti-hero, the film catapulted the character to new heights of popularity and became a massive box office success.
Unlike traditional X-Men movies, Deadpool embraced its R-rated nature and took full advantage of the freedom it provided. The result was a refreshing departure from the typical superhero formula, offering audiences a gritty, self-aware, and over-the-top cinematic experience.
The film’s success can be attributed to Reynolds’ charismatic performance as the wise-cracking mercenary, as well as the creative vision of director Tim Miller. Together, they created a hilarious and action-packed adventure that delighted fans and critics alike.
“Deadpool is an absolute game-changer in the superhero genre. It’s unapologetically bold, irreverent, and hilarious. Ryan Reynolds brings the character to life like no one else could, and the film’s commitment to its unique style sets it apart from every other X-Men movie.” – Screen Rant
Deadpool’s impact extended beyond its box office success. It proved that there was a demand for R-rated superhero films and paved the way for other unconventional comic book adaptations. The film’s success also led to the highly anticipated sequel, Deadpool 2, which further solidified the character’s status as a fan-favorite.
| Deadpool (2016) | X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Bryan Singer |
| Starring | Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, Ed Skrein |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi |
| Plot | Wade Wilson, a former Special Forces operative, undergoes an experimental procedure that gives him accelerated healing powers. Armed with his new abilities and a twisted sense of humor, he becomes the masked vigilante known as Deadpool. |
| Box Office | $783.1 million |
| Critical Reception | Received critical acclaim for its humor, visual style, and Reynolds’ performance |
X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) – A Middling Chapter
X-Men: Apocalypse, released in 2016, received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. While the film introduced a formidable new villain in Apocalypse, played by Oscar Isaac, it failed to fully live up to its potential. The movie suffered from an overloaded plot and a cliched portrayal of the villain, resulting in a middling chapter in the X-Men franchise.
Despite its flaws, X-Men: Apocalypse still offers visually stunning sequences and showcases the exceptional talents of its ensemble cast. The action-packed scenes and special effects captivate audiences, providing a thrilling cinematic experience. However, the film falls short compared to its predecessors in terms of storytelling and character development, leaving fans wanting more.
While X-Men: Apocalypse may not rank among the top X-Men movies, it still has its moments of entertainment and offers a spectacle for fans of the franchise. However, when compared to other films in the series, it lacks the depth and emotional impact that have made certain X-Men movies stand out.
Table of X-Men Movie Rankings:
| Movie | Ranking |
|---|---|
| X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) | 1 |
| Logan (2017) | 2 |
| X2: X-Men United (2003) | 3 |
| X-Men: First Class (2011) | 4 |
| X-Men (2000) | 5 |
| Deadpool (2016) | 6 |
| X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) | 7 |
| X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) | 8 |
| X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) | 9 |
| The New Mutants (2020) | 10 |
X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) – A Cliche-Ridden Misstep
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is often considered one of the weaker entries in the X-Men franchise. With a convoluted script and a familiar narrative, the film fails to live up to its potential. Hugh Jackman’s performance as Wolverine remains a highlight, but overall, X-Men Origins: Wolverine falls short in delivering a compelling and coherent story.
The film, directed by Gavin Hood, was intended to explore the origins of one of Marvel’s most iconic characters, Wolverine. Unfortunately, it suffered from bloated plotlines, excessive characters, and a lack of focus. The inclusion of multiple mutants and an abundance of action sequences detracted from the development of a satisfying narrative.
Despite its shortcomings, X-Men Origins: Wolverine did have its moments. Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine continued to captivate audiences with his intensity and brooding nature. The film also introduced Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool, albeit with a heavily altered depiction.
“You people have been trying to kill me for 150 years. I’m not going anywhere.”
While the action sequences were visually impressive, they often overshadowed the potential for meaningful character development. The film relied heavily on explosions, CGI, and flashy set pieces, neglecting the emotional depth that the X-Men franchise is known for.
The Downfall of X-Men Origins: Wolverine
One of the biggest disappointments in X-Men Origins: Wolverine was the mishandling of fan-favorite characters and storylines. The depiction of Deadpool, in particular, drew significant criticism. The character’s iconic wit, humor, and martial arts skills were replaced with a mute, weaponized version that bore little resemblance to the beloved comic book character.
The film’s attempt to cram in multiple mutants, including Gambit, Emma Frost, and Blob, resulted in these characters receiving minimal development and screen time. Their inclusion felt forced and superficial, adding to the overall cluttered and disjointed nature of the film.
Despite its flaws, X-Men Origins: Wolverine did provide a glimpse into the early years of Wolverine’s life and explored his complex relationship with Sabretooth, played by Liev Schreiber. The film also delved into the Weapon X program, which experimented on mutant subjects, highlighting the darker side of the X-Men universe.
While X-Men Origins: Wolverine may not live up to the standards set by other films in the franchise, it serves as a reminder that even the X-Men can stumble on their journey to greatness.
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) – A Disappointing Finale
X-Men: The Last Stand, directed by Brett Ratner, is widely regarded as the weakest film in the original X-Men trilogy. Despite its impressive ensemble cast and high expectations, this movie fails to live up to the standards set by its predecessors. The rushed storytelling, underdeveloped characters, and lackluster finale to the Phoenix storyline contribute to its negative reputation in the X-Men film rankings.
While X-Men: The Last Stand showcases the talents of actors such as Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, and Ian McKellen, the flaws in the film’s execution cannot be overlooked. The narrative feels rushed, with important storylines and character arcs receiving insufficient development. This disappointing installment leaves viewers longing for the depth and complexity of the previous films.
Despite its shortcomings, X-Men: The Last Stand still offers visually impressive sequences and showcases the potential for engaging action. However, these strengths are overshadowed by the film’s overall failure to deliver a satisfying conclusion to the beloved Phoenix storyline and its position as one of the worst X-Men movies ever made.
The New Mutants (2020) – A Lackluster Conclusion
The New Mutants, the final installment in the Fox X-Men franchise, failed to live up to its potential as a satisfying conclusion to the beloved series. The film, plagued by production issues and multiple delays, fell short of expectations and received mixed reviews from critics. Despite the anticipation surrounding the introduction of a fresh group of mutants and the opportunity to explore new storytelling territory, The New Mutants ultimately disappoints with its lackluster narrative and execution.
While the film had the potential to rank among the top X-Men movies, it fails to deliver the captivating and engaging experience that fans have come to expect. The story lacks depth and fails to fully develop its characters, leaving audiences feeling disconnected and uninvested. The film’s pacing and structure also contribute to its overall weakness, as it fails to build suspense or create a compelling narrative arc.
Furthermore, The New Mutants struggles to find its footing tonally, wavering between horror elements and traditional superhero tropes without fully committing to either. This inconsistency detracts from the overall cohesion of the film and leads to a disjointed viewing experience. As a result, The New Mutants ranks among the worst X-Men movies, failing to live up to the high standards set by its predecessors in the franchise.
FAQ
What is the best X-Men movie ranked?
X-Men: Days of Future Past is widely regarded as one of the best X-Men movies ever made.
Which X-Men movie marks the final performance of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine?
Logan, released in 2017, marks the final performance of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine.
What is the X-Men movie that elevated the franchise to new heights?
X2: X-Men United is often regarded as the film that elevated the X-Men franchise to new heights.
Which X-Men movie is considered a refreshing return to form for the franchise?
X-Men: First Class is considered a refreshing return to form for the franchise.
What is the film that started the X-Men franchise?
X-Men, released in 2000, is the film that started the X-Men franchise.
Which X-Men movie broke new ground in the superhero genre?
Deadpool broke new ground in the superhero genre.
Did X-Men: Apocalypse receive positive reviews?
X-Men: Apocalypse received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike.
What is considered one of the weaker entries in the X-Men franchise?
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is often considered one of the weaker entries in the X-Men franchise.
Which X-Men movie is widely regarded as the weakest film in the original trilogy?
X-Men: The Last Stand is widely regarded as the weakest film in the original X-Men trilogy.
How was The New Mutants received?
The New Mutants fell short of expectations and received mixed reviews.
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