Truly X-ceptional

Rating: 9/10 (27 May 2006)

I've always have been a fan of the X-Men stuff (though not a fanatical comic collector but rather a big kid who was and still is an avid fan of the cartoon show) because of the diversity of its characters, mature storytelling and the sophisticated themes of discrimination and relationships between humans and mutants. I've also recently collected the first two chapters of the X-Men DVD movies (both directed by Bryan Singer) and really enjoyed seeing how Bryan tackles them by implementing some new and clever ideas and taking necessary liberties while maintaining the spirit of the comic books. Now that Bryan's gone to help out the Superman franchise, it's up to Brett Ratner and some of his new crew to complete the final act of the symphony, which definitely seems a little frightening a first, since it usually has a higher chance of changing the mood and the quality of the show entirely. Even recently mixed receptions strengthen its case, so I honestly don't know if X3 would worth a ticket price, so I just hope in with my mom and just try to enjoy.
Believe it or not, X-Men 3: The Last Stand, no matter what many critics say, turns out to be a really awesome movie! From the prologue that takes place 20 years ago to a grand climatic battle, the movie succeeds in fulfilling the promises of the first two while extending the trilogy's capability to the fullest. Though Brett could have polished the flow of the story (the sub-plots seem incoherent and cluttered), he really nails it by creating many of the most memorable and emotional pivotal scenes that even the great Bryan can't seem to muster. And if you think all of the emotions have been replaced by special effects and explosions, the critics must have been blind. Indeed, some of the characters DO SHOW THEM IN IMPORTANT CIRCUMSTANCES, even if it's mildly executed! SFX does not only make eye-candy visuals, instead, it helps to strengthen the emotions they express through their powers while at the same time creates metaphors to allow viewers to make their own interpretations.
As for acting, like its mood and setting, so far it remains consistent to the previous ones. Expected some fine performances from Patrick Stewart, Halle Barry Kelsay Grammar and the ever magnificent Sir Ian McKellen (Magneto Rules!) but eventually, Hugh Jackman steals the show with some of his finest portrayal of the lone wolf Logan/Wolverine. Sure, we all wish every mutant got a crucial role in the movie but hey, sometimes you can't do everything to make it workable (if you are a filmmaker, what'd you have felt?).
Despite its inevitable shortcomings and its lack of Bryan's brilliant input, X3 still proves to be a satisfying conclusion to the series, making way for more possible spin-offs such as Wolverine and Magneto and even possibly X4. Don't be tempted by the critical consensus by the major critics (they are so dead wrong); sometimes it's best to listen to your heart and decide.