Great even for those who have limited knowledge

Rating: 10/10 (4 August 2000)

Okay, I might as well admit it -- I've never read an X-Men comic book, ever. However, I did see some of the animated series (a good one, too), and gained some knowledge of the characters involved. Then I learned of the X-Men movie from a trailer while waiting for "Mission: Impossible 2", and noticed that Patrick Stewart was in the movie, so I decided to check it out, partly to see how good he was (my boss really likes him.)
Well, not only was he great, but the movie was great too, even for those who have limited knowledge of the movie!
In the not-too-distant future, people are developing unusual powers, and as a result are feared by normal people, especially Sen. Robert Kelly. He wants to create a mutant registration program, and both Professor Xavier (Stewart) and Magneto (Ian McKellan) don't like it. But while Xavier still holds out hope for the humans, Magneto, thanks to a horrific experience as a Holocaust survivor, does not. He wants to force humans to accept mutants -- by turning humans into mutants!
Magneto has created a machine that can do so, but it weakens him severely, so he needs Marie/Rogue (Anna Paquin), a mutant who has the unfortunate gift of absorbing the lifeforce and memories of anyone she touches (and in the case of other mutants, their powers as well), meaning she could kill a person. When Magneto kidnaps her, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), who has befriended her, goes to her aid, as do the X-Men -- Cyclops (James Marsden), Storm (Halley Berry), and Jean Grey (Famke Janessen).
I loved the movie! It had neat characters -- to me, the worst was Sabertooth (Tyler Mane), and he was still okay, -- fine action, and a good message about the evil effects of prejudice and intolerance to boot. Plus, it had two relationships that were handled well. The first was between Professor Xavier and Magneto, and Stewart and McKellan handled that friendship very well. They may be on opposing sides, but their friendship prevents them from killing each other, which helps Magneto's characterization especially. McKellan plays Magneto as someone with good reasons for what he does, but sadly misguided.
The second relationship is the paternal one (or is it a big brother/little sister one?) between Wolverine and Rogue, and it works wonderfully. The relationship helps Rogue feel safe and accepted, while it humanizes Wolverine. I especially love the scene where he willingly gives Rogue his healing power to save her. It is my favorite scene, because it is proof of what good relationships can do to people. Kudos to Jackman and Paquin for their portrayals of Wolverine and Rogue!
In short, all fans of the series must see "X-Men"! And for those who have limited or no knowledge, give it a chance anyway. You might wind up loving it.
Belle Book