A huge crossover hit with claws... I mean, legs!

Rating: 9/10 (10 July 2000)

Finally, a comic book to movie transplant that survived the operation! X-Men is sure to become the latest in a series of US Summer season dark horses. Never before has a film of this genre so skilfully played to mainstream audiences and die-hard fans alike! From a Big Summer Movie perspective, it provides a tight story, efficient character setups, dazzling visual effects, creepy villains, a lean (but sufficiently packed) running time, even the odd spot of sharp dialogue! From the fans' perspective, it hits the mark in every dramatic area: the characters all have small but extremely telling moments to display personalities completely consistent with those you've known and loved all these years. The group dynamic is well established, and the actors are all terrific- special mention MUST be made of Hugh Jackman (NOT because he's Australian!), as his Russell Crowe-esque performance beautifully fleshes out Wolverine's angst, confusion and warring mental states. Expect this guy's star to go nova within the next couple of years. Director/co-writer Bryan Singer returns to his "Usual Suspects" form (after the disappointment of "Apt Pupil"), making what is ure to be the biggest comic book-crossover hit since the Tim Burton "Batman" films. Overall, it makes for a terrifically enjoyable "Big Movie" experience. One of the few movies where the prospect of a sequel actually seems promising...