The X-Men film franchise, a sprawling tapestry of timelines and interconnected narratives, can be daunting for newcomers. The optimal way to watch the X-Men movies is generally in chronological order of in-universe events, offering a clearer understanding of character development and storyline evolution, while acknowledging that production order allows for the intended reveals and narrative structure as envisioned by the filmmakers.
Navigating the Mutant Maze: Order is Key
Choosing the right viewing order is crucial to enjoying the X-Men films. With prequels, sequels, reboots, and branching timelines, the seemingly straightforward task of watching these movies can quickly become confusing. Two primary approaches exist: Chronological Order (based on in-universe events) and Release Order (based on the order in which the films were released in theaters).
Chronological Order: Witness the Mutant Genesis
This order allows you to experience the characters’ origins and the world’s evolving attitude towards mutants as they unfold within the X-Men universe. This approach is ideal for those new to the franchise. The suggested order is:
- X-Men: First Class (2011): Sets the stage for the entire franchise, showcasing the formation of the original X-Men team.
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014): Largely set in 1973, this film directly follows the events of First Class and introduces the timeline alteration aspect.
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): While considered one of the weaker entries, it provides Wolverine’s backstory, though retconned elements exist.
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016): Takes place in the 1980s, focusing on the emergence of the ancient mutant Apocalypse.
- Dark Phoenix (2019): Set in 1992, further explores Jean Grey’s powers and the Phoenix Force.
- X-Men (2000): Introduces the core X-Men team and establishes the conflict between Professor X and Magneto.
- X2: X-Men United (2003): Builds upon the foundations laid in the first X-Men film, expanding the mutant threat.
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006): Concludes the original trilogy, focusing on the Mutant Cure and the Dark Phoenix saga (again, with significant alterations).
- The Wolverine (2013): Explores Wolverine’s journey in Japan, grappling with his immortality and past.
- Deadpool (2016): While tonally distinct, it exists within the broader X-Men universe.
- Deadpool 2 (2018): Continues Deadpool’s story and introduces Cable, further connecting it to the X-Men narrative.
- Logan (2017): A poignant and acclaimed conclusion to Wolverine’s arc, set in a dystopian future.
- The New Mutants (2020): A horror-tinged entry focusing on a group of young mutants discovering their powers.
Release Order: Experience the Films as They Were Meant to Be
Watching the movies in release order allows you to appreciate the evolution of the franchise’s special effects, storytelling techniques, and character interpretations. This order is valuable for experiencing the twists and reveals as the creators intended. The order is simply:
- X-Men (2000)
- X2: X-Men United (2003)
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
- X-Men: First Class (2011)
- The Wolverine (2013)
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
- Deadpool (2016)
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
- Logan (2017)
- Deadpool 2 (2018)
- Dark Phoenix (2019)
- The New Mutants (2020)
Considerations When Choosing an Order
Ultimately, the “best” order is subjective. Consider these points:
- New Viewers: Chronological order is often recommended to grasp the foundational story.
- Franchise Veterans: Release order can offer a nostalgic experience and highlight the franchise’s evolution.
- Continuity Concerns: Be prepared for inconsistencies, especially with X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The Days of Future Past timeline alteration complicates matters further.
- Standalone Films: Deadpool and Logan can be enjoyed relatively independently, but familiarity with the X-Men universe enhances the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Watching X-Men Movies
Here are some common questions that arise when navigating the X-Men film franchise, answered to provide clarity and guidance.
1. Is X-Men Origins: Wolverine Worth Watching?
While X-Men Origins: Wolverine suffers from significant plot holes and character inconsistencies, it provides backstory for Wolverine and introduces characters like Sabretooth. However, many aspects are retconned in later films. Watch it for completion’s sake, but be aware of its flaws and disregard inconsistencies in future viewing. It helps inform Logan’s motivations in later movies, despite the debatable quality.
2. How Does “Days of Future Past” Affect the Timeline?
Days of Future Past creates a fork in the timeline. The events of the original trilogy (X-Men, X2, X-Men: The Last Stand) still happened, but the altered timeline allows for a new set of events to unfold, beginning with X-Men: Apocalypse. Therefore, films released after Days of Future Past (excluding Logan, which seems to exist outside the main timelines) operate on this new, altered timeline.
3. Does “Logan” Fit Into the Chronological Order?
Logan is set in a distant, bleak future and feels somewhat disconnected from the main X-Men continuity, especially after Days of Future Past. While theoretically following the events of the altered timeline, its tone and setting suggest a possible alternate future, or even a completely separate reality. Its precise place within the grand narrative is debated, but it serves as a poignant and definitive conclusion to Wolverine’s personal story.
4. Are the “Deadpool” Movies Canon to the Main X-Men Timeline?
Yes, the Deadpool movies are considered canon, although they operate with a meta-awareness that often breaks the fourth wall. They frequently reference and poke fun at the X-Men universe, but they still exist within it. Deadpool’s appearance in Deadpool 2 with the X-Force team confirms this connection.
5. Should I Watch the Post-Credit Scenes?
Absolutely! The X-Men movies are notorious for their revealing post-credit scenes. These often tease future storylines, introduce new characters, or offer humorous moments. Skipping them means missing out on crucial context and exciting hints about what’s to come.
6. Do I Need to Know Anything About the Comics Before Watching the Movies?
While knowledge of the comics isn’t essential, it certainly enriches the viewing experience. Understanding the characters’ comic book origins, relationships, and key storylines provides a deeper appreciation for the films’ adaptations, alterations, and Easter eggs.
7. Where Can I Stream or Buy the X-Men Movies?
The availability of X-Men movies for streaming varies depending on your region and the specific streaming service. Check platforms like Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and various digital rental/purchase services (Apple TV, Google Play, etc.) for availability in your area.
8. Why Are Some X-Men Movies Considered Better Than Others?
The quality of X-Men movies is subjective, but common criticisms often relate to:
- Inconsistent Character Portrayals: Deviations from established comic book personalities can frustrate fans.
- Weak Plotlines: Some films suffer from convoluted or uninspired narratives.
- Overreliance on Special Effects: While visually impressive, effects can sometimes overshadow the story.
- Forced Connections: Attempting to tie films together with flimsy connections can feel artificial.
9. What’s the Difference Between “X-Men” and “Marvel Cinematic Universe” X-Men?
The X-Men movies originally produced by 20th Century Fox are separate from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, with Disney’s acquisition of Fox, the X-Men rights have reverted to Marvel Studios. It’s anticipated that mutants will eventually be integrated into the MCU, but the specifics are still unknown. Any new X-Men movies after the Fox films will be part of the MCU.
10. Is There a “Correct” Order to Watch Before the MCU Integration?
No definitively “correct” order exists before the MCU integration. Choose either chronological or release order based on your preference. The Fox X-Men universe is distinct from the MCU.
11. What About the TV Shows, Like “Legion” and “The Gifted”?
Legion and The Gifted are X-Men related TV shows. Legion has a very loose connection and can be viewed independently. The Gifted is more directly connected to the film universe (specifically the Days of Future Past timeline), but its canonicity is debated. They aren’t essential viewing for understanding the movies, but offer expanded stories within the mutant world.
12. Are There Any X-Men Movies I Can Skip?
While skipping films is a matter of personal preference, X-Men Origins: Wolverine is often cited as the most dispensable due to its poor reception and numerous retcons. However, even flawed entries can contribute to the overall understanding of character arcs and franchise themes. To truly appreciate the scope and complexity of the X-Men universe, watching all the films, even the weaker ones, is recommended.