Unlike another superhero movie that came out this spring, my expectations for X-Men: Days of Future Past (DOFP) couldn’t have been higher. Not only was I expecting a vibrant piece of sci-fi action, I was also expecting a respectful adaption of the comic book classic the film is named after and some serious bridging between the „old“ and the new X-movies (because why bother getting the original cast if you’re not going to do that?). Quite a list, huh? Well, I’m happy to report that DOFP delivered on all fronts.
The big idea behind the film isn’t new, but it’s still fun. The story stays firmly on track despite the fast pace and the time travel device. This is not a time travel plot that’s likely to confuse you, even if you aren’t as familiar with these characters as I am. The action is slick and creative, with a prison break scene set in the (1970s) present and various skirmishes in the dystopian future providing the biggest wow factor for me personally. DOFP is also the first X-movie that really depicts the X-Men fighting as a team unit, combining their mutant powers for maximum effect and all that fun stuff.
If you haven’t seen the previous X-Men movies (or got on board with 2011’s First Class), you’ll be able to follow this installment just fine and you’re going to have a blast doing so. If you have watched the earlier films, especially the original trilogy, then DOFP is a must-watch. Don’t be surprised if you find that you suddenly „have something in your eye“ either. DOFP is, in many ways, a chance for the old cast to say goodbye and a gift to longtime fans, but it’s executed in a way that remains accessible to newcomers and secures the future of the franchise.
As a fan of the X-Men in general and Fox’s interpretation of them, this was an easy 5/5 for me. Bring on 2016 and X-Men: Apocalypse!