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X-Men
(2000) |
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In a future not too distant from our own present day, some humans have evolved to form the next step in human evolution. They are known as mutants and possess 'super human' power that set them apart from normal humans. In the midst of this scenario an atmosphere of mistrust has developed between humans and mutants. Two very different sets of mutant groups, lead by two very different leaders, form separate strategies to deal with the situation. On the one hand, Magneto (McKellan), seeing humans as always being antagonistic to mutants, seeks confrontation and foresees a war brewing that is to be won 'by all necessary means'. In stark contrast, Professor Charles Xavier (Stewart) and his team of X-Men, attempt to limit such damaging conflict from exploding into open conflict. Bryan Singer whose brilliant debut - The Usual Suspects - was followed by the return to earth with a thud, Apt Pupil, takes on a real challenge with the X-Men. Of all the segments of cinema goers, the most difficult to please are undoubtedly comic book fans. In addition, condensing the history of comic book characters into a 2-hour film is always a writer's nightmare. It's difficult enough when you have one super hero to deal with but in the case of the X-Men, you have multiple characters to introduce. Singer, though, has done a commendable job. Unlike the non-Tim Burton Batman's, X-Men is not all flash and action and no substance. While some people have complained that the build up leaves little time for all out pyrotechnics, the fact is that the film moves along at a good pace never allowing the viewers attention to waver. It also means that one has more of a chance of 'getting to know' the main characters. Here Singer cleverly decides to focus on the most interesting of the mutants and weaves the film around him. Wolverine, with the retractable adamantium claws shooting out of knuckles is not only the biggest X-Men draw but he is also by far the most compelling character in the movie. By focussing on Wolverine, Singer is able to bring in to the film internal conflict, fear, wit, a dash of romance and jealousy and a brooding seriousness. In addition, the X-Men works as a straight up action - special effects extravaganza as well. There are enough smartly executed thrills to keep action seekers more than happy. The acting all round is solid with McKellan and Stewart adding particular weight and respectability. But its Hugh Jackson as the edgy, troubled Wolverine who steals the show. It's suitably intense and physical performance. The villainous sidekicks are somewhat disappointing with the doltish Sabre Tooth and the long tongued toad providing little competition. Mystique, however, is another matter - whenever she isn't impersonating someone else! In a summer of mindless rubbishy films, it's nice to see the super hero genre providing the intelligence. After faltering since the Tim Burton batman series, the super hero genre receives a welcome boost with the X-Men. Along with Gladiator, the X-Men is a worthy summer blockbuster. Can't wait for Sam Raimi's Spider-man to swing round next year sometime.
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