That's more like it!

Rating: 9/10 (8 June 2014)

After being somewhat disappointed with X-Men: First Class, my expectations for this movie were normal. I expected an entertaining movie, but nothing more. I didn't expect such an ambitious and emotional installment. Right from the outset, I knew I was in for a wild ride, I just had that feeling. My gut instinct doesn't usually lie and it didn't this time around. Before I praise this movie thoroughly, I'll get one flaw out-of-the-way. If you're a huge X-Men fan, I don't recommend that you watch all the movies before this one. The continuity errors will drive you crazy. If you manage to brush that aside and block it out, more than likely you'll have a blast with this movie. With this sequel, everybody has so much more to lose. The stakes definitely feel way higher than before and I felt it emotionally. The post-apocalyptic atmosphere in the future is appropriately grim and extremely well done. I was also impressed with how they made 1973 look. I felt it mirrored the time period precisely. If you're craving action, this movie won't disappoint you. It's filled with tons of action for all the adrenaline junkies out there. Another thing I really liked was the presence of mutant killing machines. It made the odds seem insurmountable for the gang. The performances are excellent. Hugh Jackman is awesome as always. It was great to see Patrick Stewart in the franchise again. McAvoy & Fassbender are even more comfortable in their roles this time around. They were great as young Charles & Erik respectively. I felt they played off one another perfectly. Jennifer Lawrence is terrific as Mystique. Ian McKellen doesn't have as much to do, but it was nice to see him play a good guy. Halle Berry is completely wasted as Storm. She barely has any dialog and her screen time isn't that great either. Peter Dinklage added an interesting element to his part. Anna Paquin has a brief scene near the end. Page, Hoult, and Ashmore do what they have to do well. I won't spoil it, but there is a couple of cameo's at the end of the movie that made me grin. X-Men fans will definitely be pleased with the cameos. I liked the way they ended the movie. They tacked on a happy ending, but made sure it wasn't too contrived.
X-Men: Apocalypse is due next for this franchise. It will be interesting to see what direction they take. I was floored by this movie and I didn't expect to be. Not only is it filled with breathtaking action, it manages to be successfully ambitious at the same time. I really don't see how you can dislike this movie. It has a bit of everything and it's a must see! I'm glad I saw this in the theater
9.3/10