Outstanding In Every Way

Rating: 10/10 (11 June 2006)

Number ONE of the three best Movies of 2006 so far. I can't sit through a movie as though it is "mindless entertainment", being a writer and an artist I unwillingly break the movies apart. Judging them by these things: 1. If the Director was able to capture the heart of the film, while over coming predestined obstacles. 2. If the Graphics were wisely chosen. 3. If the movie used its own ideas or stole from others. And finally, 4. If the actors, cinematographers, and producers were able to flow with the directors vision. OH YEAH and I didn't have to be on drugs to see it!
That being said, "X-Men The Last Stand" was a great depiction of the source material. This movie did so well (for me) because of the casualties of war. This movie had casualties lost in their fight for their own individual causes.
(HERE COME THE SPOILERS)... First off is: WOLVERINE: After establishing his back story with the first two films, Last Stand wonderfully utilizes his skills and his ties to all the characters. He takes time for Rogue, fills in for Cyclops, challenges Xavier, bonds with the Phoenix and rallies the X-Men during their darkest hour. Like I said, wonderful use of Logan. MAGNETO: The other main catalyst of the film. His ambitions, charisma and his power make him the perfect antagonist for the near perfect sci-fi adventure. JEAN GREY: Nuff Said! Don't argue that she was not a casualty, even if she comes back- she still lost herself and was the pure essence of power. The perfect example of power corrupting and absolute power corrupting absolutely. Her psychotic breaks were wonderfully portrayed by Famke. BEAST: A great new voice with a great new look. Kelsey was perfect PROFESSOR XAVIER: One of the most important roles in the movie because we finally see shades of gray from Xavier (or shades of GREY if you will). The allusion to Professor X not being able to help Jean like he was unable to help Jason from X2. The frustration Xavier feels as he explains to Logan why he had to place barriers in Jean's mind is palpable. Also, the reaction of the children during his memorial is the most moving and emotional moment in any of the three films.
Anyways, for the task of making a great sequel... that offered more then the first and was able to expand on the second- it met all requirements with FLYING COLORS! The pace was better, the effects were better, the writing was at least as good, the additional characters were nicely patched in, Wolverine kicked backside, and over all this is the best film of the SUMMER '06!!!!!!