Groundbreaking comic book movie

Rating: 8/10 (4 July 2007)

OK so Blade came slightly before it, but this was the first in the current wave of comic book movies to really hit the mark. It also remains one of the best despite being almost 7 years old now. Improvements in technology, a big budget, a willingness to splash out on star names and a decision to take the source material seriously all contribute to the success of Bryan Singer's blockbuster. The decision to focus on the more iconic Xmen from the 70s rather than the original Xmen lineup from the 60s was definitely the right one. Comic movies are as dependant on the villains as they are the heroes and again, Bryan Singer has made a good selection. Along with Magneto we see Sabretooth, Mystique and rather less impressively the lesser known but older foe Toad. Hugh Jackman made his name as Wolverine, a mutant with little memory of his past who seems to be at the centre of a devilish scheme hatched by the evil terrorist mutant Magneto(Ian Mckellen)and his Brotherhoor of Mutants. He is rescued from an attempted kidnapping by Charles Xavier's (Patrick Stuart) Xmen, a group dedicated to protecting mankind despite it's fear and loathing of mutants such as themselves. The stellar cast is rounded up by Halle Berry who plays Xman Storm, in a role that isn't quite what it could be as the character remains largely undeveloped. This is a bit of problem with the film as there are so many super powered characters for the viewer to get to know several of them go under nourished in back story and characterisation. This could be a blessing however as if we had to get to know the ins and outs of each of them we'd never get started on the actual story. To keep fans of the comic series happy there is a smattering of lesser known Xmen that we see in small roles and in the background throughout including Iceman and Shadowcat. A big blockbuster such as this relies on special fx to get noticed and shock and awe the audience and Xmen's do not disappoint. Particularly of note is Mystique and her transformations, as well as some mild body horror involving a liquifying senator. These FX were incedible at the time and still stand up today. Another crucial ingredient of the comic book film is the action sequence, and Xmen has them in bulk. The fighting itself is a bit Wire Fu for my tastes and has a strong Matrix influence. People tend to fly up the air for quite a distance with minimal provocation and it all looks a bit silly in places. This contrasts with the sequel which was rougher and harder hitting. That said there are some impressive set pieces such as the final battle inside the Statue Of Liberty and a scene involving Magneto, the police and lots of guns. A big hit and deservedly so, Xmen caters to the tastes of the comic book fans, but alters the story enough to make it enjoyable for the wider audience. This would be enjoyable for fans who are a notoriously difficult group to please whilst not being alien to people who've never heard of the Xmen before. A triumph.