a fitting climax to the x-men trilogy

Rating: 8/10 (25 May 2006)

The in-differences between humans and mutants are starting to simmer; a moment of peace. Though this peace doesn't last long when a pharmaceutical company has discovered a cure for the mutant race; a cure to suppress the mutant gene forever. Division is drawn through the mutants. Many look towards this as a way of freedom from persecution and a path to normality, while others say they need no cure. Still grieving over the lose of Jean, Scott is an emotional wreck, while Logan still mourns, he figures best to move on. From the ashes of Jean's resting place, Jean has resurrected, but not the Jean she originally was.
When director Bryan Singer, of the previous two films of the X-Men, dropped from the third installment to direct the next Superman film, tension had risen. Taking the director seat, Brett Ratner has been given the argues task to deliver the final installment of the X-Men series. Screen Writers Simon Kinberg and Zak Penn have tapped into a vital themes that underpins the X-Men; acceptance, intolerance, change, individualism and the uniqueness of everyone. While Simon and Zak have tapped into these themes, when you look at their previous films they've penned, they all been in the realm of action. While the X-Men franchise has been in the action genre, it has gone above the limits to dig into the characters, to drive the film. X-Men: The Final Stand has lost that character driven force.
From the get go, the action shoots in ever direction, with an opening fight that draws upon the original cartoon series. The energy doesn't drop from there, the pacing is lighting fast without stop for a breath. It's chaotic and frenetic. Not until the second act does the pace slow down and characters are fleshed out and the sub-text starts to be drawn out. While mutants divide on the cure, friendships are torn and tested to there limits; Rogue and Bobby, Xavier and Magneto, Jean and Logan, the human population and the mutant population.
While the action does over run the film, its hard to say that it isn't of a high standard. The adrenaline pumps so hard and fast. The special effects are outstanding and visually amazing. The scene on the Golden Gate bridge is breath taking, while the final battle is perfectly crafted and executed.
Reprising their roles, the original cast return, though Nightstawker to be seen this time. All do a great performances in their roles, with the induction of new character that are added to the mix. Kelsey Grammar is amazing as the humble Beast. Vinnie Jones brings a tongue in check quality to Juggernaut. Ben Foster is good as Angel, yet very under used. Dania Ramirez as Callisto and Ellen Page as Kitty are good too.
Brett Ratner has delivered on all accounts a fitting end to the X-Men trilogy, it just would have been better to see Bryan Singer's version, to finish off his master piece trilogy.