Fist class origin story

Rating: Null/10 (7 August 2011)

A prequel to the X-Men trilogy set mainly during the Cuban Missile Crisis Charles Xavier and Magneto form the first Brotherhood of Mutants to stop a former Nazi mutant Shaw and his Mutant gang. But Magneto wants to settle a score with Shaw that dates back to WWII.
First class is directed skilfully by Matthew Vaughn with a perfect mix of emotion, humour and comic-book action to the backdrop of semi-real events and the swinging 1960s. The team of writers and Singer deserve credit for the idea and dialogue. Naturally it's a well produced film with amazing locations, makeup, effects and score, but it's the attention to detail especially in the now retro set design and props that gives it a great look and feel.
James McAvoy pre-professor X has all the hallmarks of his older self, but he is more virile, McAvoy brings the character to life effortlessly. Michael Fassbender's ever changing accent aside he's perfect as Erik/Magneto hell bent on revenge, from the opening of this instalment this is very much his story.
In supporting roles are Jennifer Lawrence as a young Mystique, Rose Byrne a CIA agent and Jason Flemyng as Azazel to name a few. Main villain Shaw is played by Kevin Bacon who is both menacing and charismatic. However, it's relatively unknown actress January Jones who steals the show as Emma Frost. There are a few surprise cameos from the previous films cast which all amounts to a wonderful cast ensemble.
Vaughn ensures that the focus is on the characters, their relationships and there abilities rather than the fantastic effects but while their is depth he is careful not to over dramatise or make the proceedings too melodramatic retaining the comic book spirit and serious theme sits in it's own respected world.
First Class is well written, lots of fun much and very enjoyable - arguably more than the previous X-Men outings. That said, it's also a great prequel but can stand on it's own. I'm sure fan boys would like to see Ian McKellen's Magneto versus his younger Fassbender self - the opportunity for sequels are endless.
Recommend first class entertainment.