Entertaining Comic Caper

Rating: Null/10 (19 September 2001)

X-Men is a fun, fantastic, and futuristic look at what life might be like if human beings were surrounded with mutants(people that possess special powers). Created from the famous Marvel Comics, Bryan Singer directs this material with a golden hand, turning what many might consider comic fodder into screen magic. The special effects are wonderful and play a large part in the film, but what really sets this film off from others of its like is its very humanistic approach to different philosophical viewpoints with regard to evil and good. Lots of grey here as the primary villain is a man that has seen evil in his own life and has grown to be distrustful of mankind in general. Ian McKellen plays the complex Magneto with a rich aplomb for finesse. His scenes are probably the most entertaining, yet he is ably assisted by all the actors concerned. Patrick Stewart does an equally good job as Professor Xavier. Stewart and McKellen are two reasons why this film rises above the material. Class acts. Wolverine is played by relative unknown Hugh Jackman, who has a kinetic screen presence. He does a wonderful job with his role as do Anna Paquin, and all others concerned. This is a great way to spend ninety minutes!