Everything the first four films should've been, and everything a summer film should be!

Rating: 9/10 (6 June 2011)

Okay, yes, looking back there are some continuity issues that are only further confounded by character appearances in films three and four. And Hugh Jackman's cameo may only work to further drive this point. But watching the film, I never once thought of these issues, because i was focused on the film in itself. I'd call it an alternate universe (Remember people, this is a COMIC BOOK movie! Such a thing is NOT unheard of!) even with the same Wolverine from the original films. Moving on from there, this film is simply perfect as a summer tent-pole. It has a balance between the scope of an epic and the closeness of a personal story, even with all its characters. Its action is exhilarating and even the non-action sequences are capable of drawing you in. The acting, writing, and direction have the right mix of humor, seriousness, and emotion. The world created here is a wonderful blend of James Bond and Marvel - though the latter's traditional prejudice is downplayed a bit. But it is X-Men nonetheless. Lastly, unlike all the other films, it is actually an endearing story - one that you can invest yourself in and is more than an attempt to make money. I would recommend this to everyone I know.