We get to see our favorite superheroes use their powers of might and triumph over evil. But we also frequently receive a glimpse into the often troubled souls of these figures to discover what makes them tick. The comic book movie, however, is generally not the same thing. But Singer tempers these exciting sequences with sufficient looks at the crippled insides of many of these mutant fighters, thereby endearing the audience to their conflicts while still remembering to generate the rah-rah support any good superhero needs. Yet, like many good causes, there are factions.
Singer goes to great lengths to establish the sad connections between the mutants.
His opening scenes are not ones that show amped-up effects, but rather tragic and vivid experiences in a death camp as well as the sad aftermath of a mutant girl's first kiss. Singer understands the tragedy within a character who can't physically touch someone without killing them, and showcases it without being shameless about it. There must be something about Aussie badasses, because Hugh Jackman's work as this character suggests a leaner and meaner Russell Crowe. In addition to Jackman, Singer also elicits fine work from Stewart and McKellen, as rivals who clearly have respect for each other while holding opposing viewpoints on their genetic destiny. Both veteran actors wisely go low-key with their roles, Stewart avoiding any corny speeches and McKellen dodging any villainous grandstanding.