Chris Olson's Film Review Blog

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Thursday 26 January 2012

X-Men: First Class (2011)


Matthew Vaughn directs this new take on the X-Men franchise, this time giving us the early story of Charles Xavier and Magneto, as they team up to fight a looming evil which threatens the destruction of the human race.

Few comic franchises have had quite the attention that the X-Men has received. Several films have been made, but, arguably, this is the best of them all. Vaughn creates a wonderful aesthetic throughout the film that combines the tumultuous period of Cold War politics, with the fantastical world of superheroes.

The casting for this film is far superior than any other X-Men movie, using the diversely talented James McAvoy as the brilliant Xavier (pre-wheelchair), and the superb Michael Fassbender as the angry-yet-awkward Magneto. Alongside these two Hollywood heavyweights, there is also Kevin Bacon and Oliver Platt, who bring their own imposing substances to the proceedings.

What is great about this version of X-Men is its humanity. Rather than make a film about extraordinary creatures with loads of special effects, X-Men: First Class delves deep into the psyches of this people, and how their “gift” effects them in a variety of differing ways. For example, Xavier sees his ability as a way of helping the world, and is able to remain pretty much incognito with it. Unlike Raven, whose vivid blue colouring and scales make her feel like an abomination. Magneto is torn between his rage at the world, with his respect for Xavier.

Deserving of its accolades, Vaughn’s film is a testament to what can be achieved with a comic story, and the combinations needed to make it a thrilling yet compelling watch.

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