The question of how to watch the X-Men movies in order is notoriously complex, prompting endless debate on platforms like Reddit. The simplest answer? Chronological order of in-universe events offers the most satisfying and coherent narrative experience, minimizing timeline inconsistencies and maximizing emotional impact. This guide will navigate you through the mutant saga, providing clarity, context, and answers to your burning questions.
The Chronological Cut: Following the Mutant Timeline
While release order has its nostalgic appeal, following the chronological order of the in-universe events provides a far richer and less confusing experience, especially for newcomers. Here’s the recommended viewing sequence:
- X-Men: First Class (2011): Set in 1962, this film serves as the perfect origin story, detailing the beginnings of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr’s relationship and the formation of the first X-Men team.
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014): A significant portion of the film takes place in 1973, making it the logical next step. This movie introduces the concept of timeline alteration, which is crucial to understanding the convoluted X-Men universe.
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): While heavily criticized, its early scenes provide backstory for Wolverine’s origins, occurring before X-Men: First Class. Be prepared to overlook continuity errors.
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016): Set in 1983, this film sees the emergence of the ancient mutant Apocalypse and the formation of a new generation of X-Men.
- Dark Phoenix (2019): Set in 1992, this movie explores Jean Grey’s transformation into the powerful and unstable Dark Phoenix.
- X-Men (2000): The film that started it all, set in the early 2000s, introducing the core X-Men team and their battle against Magneto.
- X2: X-Men United (2003): Continuing the storyline from the first film, X2 deepens the exploration of mutant prejudice and the dangers of government control.
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006): This film concludes the original trilogy, dealing with the mutant cure and the resurgence of the Phoenix force.
- The Wolverine (2013): Set after the events of X-Men: The Last Stand, this film sees Wolverine grappling with his immortality and fighting Yakuza in Japan.
- Logan (2017): Set in 2029, this poignant film provides a fitting end to Wolverine’s journey in a bleak and dystopian future.
- Deadpool (2016): While technically part of the X-Men universe, Deadpool operates mostly independently, its timeline unclear but presumed to be contemporary.
- Deadpool 2 (2018): Furthering Deadpool’s story, this film introduces Cable and expands the X-Force team.
- The New Mutants (2020): This horror-infused entry follows a group of young mutants struggling with their powers in a secret facility. Its place in the timeline is somewhat ambiguous, but it likely occurs sometime after the main X-Men trilogy and before Logan.
Navigating the Timeline Troubles: Addressing Continuity Issues
The X-Men movie franchise is notorious for its timeline inconsistencies. Days of Future Past attempts to reset the timeline, but even then, discrepancies remain. Don’t get bogged down in the details; focus on enjoying the individual stories. Think of it as multiple branching timelines rather than one perfectly linear narrative.
Ignoring Non-Essential Canon
Some fans prefer to disregard films like X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Dark Phoenix due to their negative reception and perceived damage to the established canon. While this is a valid approach, particularly for purists, it results in omitting key character backstories.
Embrace the Multiverse
Ultimately, acknowledging the multiverse aspect that Marvel has now embraced offers a reasonable explanation for inconsistencies. Different timelines, different realities; it allows for a more forgiving viewing experience.
FAQs: Answering Your X-Men Movie Queries
This section provides detailed answers to common questions about the X-Men movies, providing clarity and guidance for your viewing experience.
FAQ 1: What’s the best order to watch the X-Men movies for the first time?
Chronological order, as outlined above, is generally the most recommended approach for first-time viewers. It allows you to experience the unfolding story of the X-Men from their origins to their eventual fate, minimizing confusion caused by the franchise’s complex timeline.
FAQ 2: Is it okay to skip “X-Men Origins: Wolverine”?
Many fans recommend skipping X-Men Origins: Wolverine due to its poor critical reception and significant continuity errors. However, it does offer some insight into Wolverine’s backstory, which can be beneficial, especially before watching Logan. Weigh your desire for completeness against your tolerance for questionable filmmaking.
FAQ 3: Where does “Deadpool” fit into the X-Men timeline?
The Deadpool movies exist in a somewhat detached corner of the X-Men universe. While they acknowledge the existence of mutants and even feature some familiar faces, their place in the overall timeline is unclear. They’re best enjoyed as standalone entries with loose connections to the broader X-Men saga. Think of it as more of a tangential series.
FAQ 4: Does “Logan” require watching all the other X-Men movies?
While watching the other X-Men movies provides context for Wolverine’s journey, Logan functions effectively as a standalone film. You don’t need to see every previous movie to appreciate its emotional impact and narrative closure.
FAQ 5: What happened to the original X-Men actors after “Days of Future Past”?
Days of Future Past effectively created two timelines. The original actors (Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, etc.) largely appeared in the original trilogy and Days of Future Past’s future scenes. The younger versions of their characters (James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, etc.) took over the roles in the subsequent films set in the revised timeline.
FAQ 6: What’s the deal with the timeline reset in “Days of Future Past”?
Days of Future Past used time travel to alter the course of events, creating a new timeline where the events of X-Men: The Last Stand (and potentially some other films) never happened in the way they were originally depicted. This allowed the franchise to introduce younger versions of the characters and explore new storylines.
FAQ 7: Is “The New Mutants” worth watching?
The New Mutants is a unique entry in the X-Men franchise, offering a horror-infused take on the mutant experience. While it wasn’t a critical or commercial success, it offers a different perspective and introduces new characters. If you enjoy horror elements, it might be worth checking out.
FAQ 8: Should I watch the X-Men movies in release order or chronological order?
As stated earlier, chronological order is generally preferred for new viewers. Release order offers a nostalgic journey through the history of the franchise, but it can be confusing due to the timeline shifts and retcons.
FAQ 9: Are the X-Men movies connected to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)?
Officially, the Fox X-Men movies were separate from the MCU until Disney acquired 20th Century Fox. Now, with Deadpool 3 slated to be part of the MCU and hints of multiverse crossovers, the boundaries are blurring.
FAQ 10: What about the X-Men TV shows? Do they tie in?
Generally, no. The X-Men TV shows, such as Legion and The Gifted, exist in their own separate continuities and are not directly connected to the movie timeline.
FAQ 11: Are there any X-Men movies I should avoid entirely?
X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Dark Phoenix are often cited as the weakest entries in the franchise. While your mileage may vary, be prepared for potential disappointment.
FAQ 12: What’s the future of the X-Men now that Disney owns them?
The future of the X-Men is bright. Expect a gradual integration into the MCU, likely starting with Deadpool 3. How the existing characters will be incorporated and whether the existing actors will return remains to be seen, but the possibilities are exciting. Marvel Studios has a strong track record, so the future for the X-Men in cinema looks very positive.