150W: X-Men: The Last Stand

Short reviews for clear and concise verdicts on a broad range of films...

X-Men: The Last Stand (Dir. Brett Ratner/2006)

Opening X-Men: The Last Stand with a Terminator-style simulation, with clear nods to the previous films, (young Jean-Grey reveals ‘Level 5’ mutant ability) gives the impression we are in safe hands. But any hope is lost as favourite mutants are casually disposed of and new mutants (the hulking, dullard of a man in Juggernaut) are introduced. Rather than a fight between mutants or a fight against the mutants – a moral lesson regarding a ‘cure’ for the mutants is front and centre. Theoretically, a world-wide issue, it is limited to California. The spectacular backdrop of San Francisco becomes merely an opportunity to move CGI bridges and the climactic battle not only excludes key characters, but also erases the powers of others. Compared to X-Men the world is unrecognisable, and a return of Jean-Grey raises more questions than it answers. An awkward chapter in the series, with or without the future instalments. 

Rating: 4/10

150W: X-Men

Short reviews for clear and concise verdicts on a broad range of films...

X-Men (Dir. Bryan Singer/2000)

Patrick Stewart narrates “Mutation: it is the key to our evolution”, in a role he was born to play as telepathic teacher, Professor X. His ominous voice-over, beginning X-Men, reveals mature and relevant themes, raising the film from action-shlock to an exploration of discrimination. Boldly using extermination camps of Nazi Germany (where McKellan’s ‘Magneto’ learns of his powers) to ground the film in “reality”, X-Men has no problem taking itself seriously – and indeed it should. This particular tale follows Wolverine (Jackman) and Rogue (Paquin) as they realise they’re not alone in their skillsets of adamantium-claws and power-borrowing. Singer directs this epic-story, complete with Statue of Liberty finale, with tact, homing in on personal relationships between the ensemble cast, including Storm (Berry), Cyclops (Marsden) and Jean-Grey (Janssen). Other than one politician, humans are outsiders; powerless to the mutant war. For an action-movie, these are audacious, ground-breaking themes making X-Men a must-watch.

Rating: 8/10