The X-Men series had taken quite a tumble when Wolverine was all said and done. It's a shame, too, because I'd really enjoyed the first two films, and always thought that the X-Men universe was perfect blockbuster fare. I'm pleased to say X-Men: First Class is a fantastic return to form and probably the best X-Men film yet.
Although it's hard to imagine a better Magneto than Ian McKellen's, Michael Fassbender (Jane Eyre) is perfectly cast and James McAvoy is wonderful as always. There's really not a bad pick here: Jennifer Lawrence is great and Rose Byrne is lovely. Kevin Bacon's the one guy who may not sit well, as he's the only actor who seems to, at times, be winking at the camera, as if to say "See? I'm the Nazi bad guy. Crazy, huh?" I appreciated his over-the-top commitment though.
The reason I'm spending so much time on the acting is because X-Men: First Class is a tremendously well-acted blockbuster. You're unlikely to see another comic book adaptation with characters this developed all summer. Even at 132 minutes, the film moves with a brisk pace, occasionally whipping by critical events at such a high velocity that it is unable to slow down. Needless to say I was never bored and never checked my watch. Although I didn't catch a lot of it, hardcore X-Men fans will be pleased to know there are a lot of little moments created just for them, and the 1960s James Bond feel works surprisingly well, even if the costumes and props occasionally come off as ridiculous.
Matthew Vaughn stated that this First Class is his Batman Begins and that a Dark Knight of sorts is coming. By the end of this one, you'll be just as excited to see his second act as I was. This is going to be one of the best blockbusters you'll catch this summer. Don't miss it!
