The X-Men film franchise, spanning over two decades and encompassing multiple timelines, can be a daunting prospect for both newcomers and seasoned fans. The most recommended order to watch the X-Men movies is chronological, following the internal timeline established by the films themselves, even if it’s inconsistent. This approach prioritizes understanding the character arcs and narrative threads as they were (loosely) intended to unfold, making the overall experience more coherent.
Navigating the Mutant Multiverse: Chronological Order Explained
This recommended order emphasizes narrative flow and character development, despite the franchise’s acknowledged timeline inconsistencies. This approach attempts to stitch together the disparate threads and offer a relatively cohesive experience, focusing on the origin stories and subsequent arcs of key characters. This chronological viewing order is:
- X-Men: First Class (2011) – Establishes the origins of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr’s friendship and the formation of the first X-Men team during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) – Partially. Only the scenes set in the past (1973) are relevant at this stage. This is crucial for understanding the events that shape the subsequent timeline.
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) – Despite its issues and eventual retconning, this film provides Wolverine’s backstory, albeit a flawed one. Treat it as a potential alternate version of events.
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) – This continues the First Class timeline, showcasing the rise of Apocalypse and the formation of a new generation of X-Men.
- X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019) – Completes the First Class timeline, depicting the Jean Grey’s transformation into the Dark Phoenix.
- X-Men (2000) – Introduces the core X-Men team and their conflict with Magneto, setting the stage for the original trilogy.
- X2: X-Men United (2003) – Builds upon the established characters and introduces new threats, further exploring the X-Men’s struggle for acceptance.
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) – While controversial, it concludes the original trilogy, resolving major character arcs (at least temporarily).
- The Wolverine (2013) – Set after The Last Stand, this film showcases Wolverine’s journey in Japan and his struggle with mortality.
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) – Remaining scenes. Now watch the future scenes to understand the impact of Wolverine’s actions on the timeline.
- Deadpool (2016) – While tonally different, Deadpool exists within the X-Men universe and makes references to established characters and events.
- Deadpool 2 (2018) – Continues Deadpool’s story and introduces more X-Men characters, further solidifying its connection to the wider franchise.
- Logan (2017) – Set in a dystopian future, Logan offers a poignant and emotionally resonant conclusion to Wolverine’s arc, and arguably the entire X-Men saga.
- The New Mutants (2020) – A horror-themed film featuring a new generation of mutants. Its place in the overall timeline is somewhat ambiguous but generally accepted to be in the post-Days of Future Past world.
Delving Deeper: The FAQs of X-Men Viewing
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the optimal viewing experience.
H3: Understanding Timeline Nuances
Q1: Why is ‘Days of Future Past’ watched in two parts?
This approach maximizes the impact of the time travel element. Watching the past scenes first establishes the stakes and context, making the present-day (future) scenes far more impactful when you finally arrive at them. Splitting it this way helps you fully appreciate Wolverine’s mission and the changes he makes to the timeline.
Q2: What about ‘Dark Phoenix’? It’s often considered a poor movie. Should I skip it?
While Dark Phoenix received negative reviews, it’s still part of the chronological narrative. Skipping it would leave a gap in Jean Grey’s story and the overall First Class timeline. However, be prepared for a potentially underwhelming experience. Consider it “optional but recommended for completion’s sake”.
Q3: ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ is generally disliked and retconned. Why include it?
While flawed, it’s the only film dedicated to Wolverine’s origin story before Logan. Viewing it, even with its inconsistencies, provides context for the character. Acknowledge its problems and treat it with a grain of salt.
H3: Alternative Viewing Orders and Considerations
Q4: What are the benefits of watching by release date instead of chronologically?
Release order reflects the evolving storytelling of the franchise. It allows you to experience the films as audiences did, witnessing the introduction of new characters and concepts in the order they were presented. This approach can be more nostalgic and reveal how the franchise matured (or devolved) over time.
Q5: Is there a “best” order that avoids all the timeline contradictions?
Unfortunately, no. The X-Men movies are notorious for their timeline inconsistencies. Each viewing order will inevitably present some conflicts. The chronological order attempts to minimize these by prioritizing character arcs.
Q6: How important are the post-credit scenes?
Post-credit scenes are crucial for hinting at future storylines and character introductions. Always watch them, as they often provide important context or set up sequels. They are integral parts of the X-Men cinematic experience.
H3: Specific Movie-Related Inquiries
Q7: Where does ‘Deadpool’ fit into the timeline?
Deadpool exists within the established X-Men universe, albeit a self-aware and fourth-wall-breaking version. It’s generally placed after Days of Future Past due to the changes in the timeline. The X-Men shown in Deadpool are different, reflecting the altered reality.
Q8: Is it necessary to watch all the movies to understand ‘Logan’?
While not strictly necessary, having a familiarity with Wolverine’s character arc from previous films significantly enhances the emotional impact of Logan. Understanding his past struggles and relationships makes his final journey all the more poignant.
Q9: What about ‘The New Mutants’? Is it connected to the other films?
The New Mutants is loosely connected and appears to be set in the post-Days of Future Past timeline, but it functions largely as a standalone story. It doesn’t heavily rely on prior knowledge of the other films.
H3: The Future of the X-Men Franchise
Q10: With Disney acquiring 20th Century Fox, how will the X-Men be integrated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)?
This is the million-dollar question! The MCU is slowly introducing mutant characters, starting with cameos and hinting at the existence of mutants in their universe. The full integration is expected to unfold over several phases of the MCU.
Q11: Will the previous X-Men movies be considered canon in the MCU?
It’s highly unlikely. The MCU will likely soft reboot the X-Men, retaining certain iconic elements but creating a fresh narrative for the characters within the MCU framework.
Q12: Should I rewatch the X-Men movies before the MCU X-Men appear?
Absolutely! Rewatching the films, regardless of the chosen order, will familiarize you with the characters and their backstories, enhancing your appreciation for their eventual integration into the MCU. It’s a good way to prepare for the inevitable changes and reimaginings. The more familiar you are with the source material, the better you’ll understand the new adaptations. Knowing the essence of the X-Men – their struggles, their powers, their relationships – will undoubtedly enhance your enjoyment of their future iterations. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and embark on a journey through the complex and captivating world of the X-Men!