First Good Comic Book movie in a long time

Rating: 9/10 (29 September 2007)

X-men is the first good comic book movie in a long time. It began the Marvel age of movies and was a precursor to other Marvel movies such as Spider-man, Hulk, Daredevil, etc. Bryan Singer brought a fresh and original style to this film which made it a great movie and a great start to the Marvel age of movies.
The casting of X-men is one of the film's best characteristics. Patrick Stewart is perfect as Charles Xavier. Hugh Jackman brings a ferocity and laid back attitude to his character Wolverine which is fantastic. Rebecca Romijin delivers a terrific performance as Mystique and Ray Park is excellent as a repulsive and sick Toad. James Marsden, Famke Janseen, Anna Paquin, Tyler Mane, and Bruce Davison all deliver great performances as well. The standout actor is Ian McKellan as Magneto. He captures the seriousness, vibrancy, anger, and devotion of his character perfectly. His portrayal of Magneto is one of the best movie villain interpretations of all time and no better actor could have been picked for the role.
I really like the story behind the movie. The X-men must face off against the Brotherhood of (Evil) Mutants. Each of which is a distinct team of mutants fighting for a different goal. The X-men wish to protect humanity which of course ultimately hates and fears them. The Brotherhood looks to "destroy" mankind for the same reason. Each team is driven based on their own personal beliefs and experiences. The thing I love about the X-men movies is that it is more than just a battle of good and evil like Spider-man. It is a battle for acceptance and once you see the movie, you should be able to understand exactly what I am talking about.
X-men has one of the best opening scenes to a movie. Not only is it a great way to start the film but it is a great way to introduce Magneto's character. So much can be shown about Magneto's character in just that 5 minute scene. I love the way Singer started the movie.
Bryan Singer does such a great job in bringing the X-men to the big screen. He captures the teams spirit, the characters attitudes, and the moral beliefs of what everyone is fighting for. Not just what the mutants are fighting for, but also what mankind is fighting for. The X-men make such a great film in that the issues behind them make for a compelling and meaningful movie.