I know if it's cliched if I say "X-Cellent" but...

Rating: 9/10 (17 August 2000)

Truly. X-Cellent.
I was counting the days of release to this movie. Studying at Oxford for the summer, I wasn't able to catch the excitement back home. But finally, on August 16th I caught it. WOW.
Now, this movie ain't perfect (but then again what is). Fans seemed to have it pegged to be this year's "Lost World" or "Phantom Menace" (although I think the latter was a let down yet fun to watch). But truly, Bryan Singer and company did a bang-up job of not only capturing the essence of classic and beloved characters but also brought something new to the screen. Not only did it dodge common comic book cheese, they also steered clear of terminal seriosity (yes, I know that's not a word). Cut and cheek but never close to anything RESEMBLING Superman III.
The movie's only flaws lie in, actually, the plot. Magneto's scheme to turn world leaders into mutants may play out better on film than on paper, it's still rather cheeesy. The movie's primary flaw, however, is it's length. I wanted more! (Is that really a flaw though). Of course, they're fixing that with the DVD and the barrage of sequels we're sure to see. Bring on X-Men 2!!!
So, in conclusion. Best movie of the year (sorry Gladiator), and it gets a 9.2 (out of 10). ALL HAIL BRYAN SINGER!