First Class All the Way.

Rating: 10/10 (19 June 2015)

X-Men: First Class (2011): Dir: Matthew Vaughn / Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Kevin Bacon, January Jones: A superb action superhero film that addresses the origins of the X-Men characters. Director Matthew Vaughn has scored applause for his work with Stardust and Kick-Ass but this is his best work yet. James McAvoy plays Charles Xavier whose younger life had it moments of fun and games but his mind reading ability led to greater expectations. Although he trains the incoming mutants, he also saves Erik's life in an attempt to kill the Nazi who killed his mother. Still, we are given insight as to why Xavier is in a wheelchair. Michael Fassbender steals the film as Erik, whom will become Magneto. His ability to attract or manipulate metal is exploited by the Nazis who shot his mother right in front of him. Years later he seeks vengeance and even Xavier's encouragement cannot prohibit the actions he will take. Jennifer Lawrence plays Raven who can render herself into the red-headed blue babe Mystique. She is uncomfortable with her appearance and seeks a cure that can allow her to appear human. Through Magneto she learns to accept herself thus leading to actions taken in the previous films. Kevin Bacon plays a suitable villain as Nazi Sebastian Shaw who executes Magneto's mother. January Jones makes a great case as Emma Frost particularly when held prisoner and able to easily carve out a circle in the glass. Years later we learn that he too is a mutant and seeks another World War until evil conquers evil. Great insightful setup with first class special effects. Score: 10 / 10