Not really as good as the first film

Rating: 8/10 (14 May 2003)

I enjoyed X-Men 2, but I can't help thinking that it isn't as good as everyone is saying it is and it certainly isn't as good as the first film. Sure, there are great effects and lots of action, but there are too many characters - some of whom have absolutely nothing to do - and the plot is overcomplicated and the film too long. X2 lacks the characterisation and relationships that set the first film apart from others of the genre. None of the characters has been developed, and the relationships that were so strongly built in the first film are sacrificed to give the action more screen time. Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan are both wonderful as always, the rest of the cast have little to do beyond flex their super powers.