X-Men: First Class (2011)

X-Men: First Class

• I’m not always a super huge fan of prequels, but this is one that exceeded all expectations. In fact, it’s even better than some of the original X-Men movies. Upon watching this, it provides some really great information and backstory to the characters and their motives, so the original X-Men trilogy makes a bit more sense. Not that it was confusing, but you really get a better sense of the characters. Plus, seeing the younger versions of them was pretty cool, and surprisingly well done. It’s hard for an actor to have to play a young version of Patrick Stewart or Ian McKlellan, but somehow, James McAvoy and Michael Fessbender did an INCREDIBLE job. Almost as good as the original actors. They bring so much more depth to the role, that only expands the characters. Beautiful, beautiful job. The storyline also helps provide great character development. Seeing everyone’s chemistry together through the events of the movie helps build great connections between them, as well as providing history behind the actual X-Men themselves. It was very exciting, with a great mix of action, tension, and drama. I love the butting of heads between not just the mutants and humans, but the mutants and the mutants. The conflict was superb. Lastly, the special effects were absolutely awesome, and especially strong for 2011. They were smooth and realistic, and worked well with the practical effects and makeup. Overall, this movie was very well made, and though sometimes corny, it’s a great prequel to an already strong trilogy. Plus, there’s an awesome cameo from Hugh Jackman, and I really, really loved seeing Kevin Bacon and Nicholas Hoult. I’d recommend this to all superhero/Marvel fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!