Prequel to the X-Men trilogy (2000-2006), set in the 1960s amid Cold War paranoia, following the origins of the Marvel mutant mythology. Directed by Kick-Ass' Matthew Vaughn.
Best buds Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lensherr (Inglourious Basterd's Michael Fassbender) discover their mutant powers for the first time. Taking the names Professor X and Magneto respectively, the pair team up with other mutants (some familiar, some new) to battle against the world's greatest threat. In the process, an irreparable rift between the friends opens, which begins the eternal war between Magneto's Brotherhood and Professor X's X-Men.
Matthew Vaughan’s reboot of the X-Men series is the series’ best entry yet, shepherded into existence by producer Bryan Singer (X-Men, X2) and scripted by Vaughan with his Kick-Ass collaborator Jane Goldman. The result is a bright, bold and fun take on Marvel’s mutants.
The 1960s period setting proves a shot in the arm, allowing for retro-styled art direction. Vaughan’s direction is inventive and interesting – necessary recruitment and training montages feel exciting under his helm. His balancing of multiple character arcs works, although some might have minor quibbles with the ease of shapeshifter Mystique’s ultimate decision.
Most valuable to the project is the excellent cast, headed by James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender (who, as an early Magneto, recalls early Bond). Kevin Bacon is fantastic as the slippery villain, Sebastian Shaw, clinking the ice in his drink while plotting his own World War III. The womenfolk, including Oscar-nominee Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone), are all mini-skirts and bras – though we’re in the swinging sixties, in case we forget.
The visual effects are mostly very good, although, with such a huge amount of them required, there is the occasional rushed slip. Even at 130 minutes, the pace keeps up with no sign of fatigue. The recent Wolverine prequel was a disaster, but this exciting entry has certainly revitalised the franchise.
By Andrew Hedley, Flicks.co.nz
A rushed and dubious ending scene on a beach aside (I almost thought Prof X and Magneto might kiss) this is a superb return to form for "X Men," following the disappointing "Wolverine." Matthew Vaughn brings his "Kick-Ass" credentials to the fore and directs a fittingly James Bondian movie that is a delight for X-MEN fans and newbies alike. 4 stars - but if the ending had been given some more thought (and time) it would have been 5. First Class (almost!)
This is the best of the X Men movie series... It's too bad the other movies before this one were shown they would have been much better done now. Bring on Apocalypse
a great movie, better than the previous x-men movies.
I enjoyed the first X-Men film and found the other 3 horrible movies. First Class is not only the best film since the first, but the best of the five. I had a great time in the cinema with this. A very fun movie with heart. A must-own!
Any film that co-opts the Nazi purges, the Cuban missile crisis and the civil rights movement better have the smarts to do so intelligently.
All you'd expect from an X-Men film (or spin-off, or prequel), but not all you'd hope for. It smacks of rush and compromise, but there's thankfully enough to make you feel optimistic about the series' future once more.
Audacious, confident and fueled by youthful energy.
A classy addition to the X-series that expertly establishes a hoard of characters, navigates a Cold War plot and squeezes a tear for a friendship failed. Dream-team casting and quality FX make this the summer blockbuster to beat.
There are some truly impressive things within this latest mutant outing.
We've been told the NZ release date for this flick is Thursday, 2nd Jun 2011.
Release date: June 2nd 2011.
We haven't received times for this movie in this location yet. However these are updated as cinemas announce them, so check back soon. Hopefully the lovely cinemas in your location will choose to play it shortly. ~Ed.
