X-Men: First Class

Release Date: Jun 03, 2011 

Runtime: 2 hr. 20 min.

Director: Matthew Vaughn 

Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Kevin Bacon, Rose Byrne, Jennifer Lawrence, January Jones. 

Every story has a beginning. And every feud has an origin, as revealed in the recent installment of the “X-Men” series, and the second Marvel release of the summer. Acting as a prequel, “First Class” reverts back to the early days of Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr, once allies in the face of a brewing nuclear war. As one aims to co-exist with humans, the other acts upon vengeance, thus ultimately leading to the creation and conflict between the “X-Men” and the “Brotherhood of Mutants.” Originally attached to direct “The Last Stand" at one point, Matthew Vaughn finally takes the reigns, and in doing so proves himself a worthy successor to Bryan Singer, as he adds a sense of practicality and depth. Though the special effects and makeup are less refined, the story feels thoroughly conceived and executed. While not the first of its genre to undergo a reboot, the film takes advantage of adept storytelling to tie in facts with fiction. Set during the Cold War, portions of history are relived, albeit with fabrications in the confines of a comic book world. James McAvoy as Xavier displays a calm and focus that hides any qualms he may have had in filling the shoes of Patrick Stewart. His characteristic good-nature helps enhance the role he's given, in contrast to January Jones, who all but stands around stiffly for appearance sake. Aside from a malicious villain played by Kevin Bacon, it’s really Michael Fassbender as Lensherr/Magneto who easily steals the show. As we watch his progression from concentration camp to raging vigilante, we witness a transformation of true mastery at work, and a bright career path ahead. But like most origin stories, the film moves at a conservative pace, opting for heavy character analysis rather than action sequences. Since "X-Men: First Class" is envisioned as a prequel, there are times when details feel contrived, and it’s this continuity that perhaps inhibits the film from reaching greater heights. As a result, lesser-known characters replace those who have been established within the franchise, while outcomes are already foreseen. Nonetheless, "First Class" earns its merits and joins the ranks of some of the best comic book movies out there. Whether it beats out "X2" is another debate to be held.

Rating: 4 stars