Hey film buffs! Are you ready to dive into the awesome world of the X-Men? This fantastic franchise, filled with mutants, superpowers, and epic battles, has entertained us for years. But with so many movies, it can be a bit tricky to figure out the best order to watch them in. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered! This guide will break down the X-Men movie series in the order you should watch them, ensuring you don't miss a single beat of the amazing story. We'll cover everything from the original trilogy to the prequels and the spin-offs. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get started on this thrilling journey through the X-Men universe!

The Chronological Order of X-Men Movies

When it comes to the X-Men movies, things get a little tricky because of time travel and alternate timelines. But that's part of the fun, right? Here's the chronological order, which follows the timeline of events within the films themselves. Watching the movies in this order gives you the most cohesive and comprehensive understanding of the X-Men saga.

1. X-Men: First Class (2011)

Let's kick things off with X-Men: First Class. This movie is a real gem, guys. It takes us back to the 1960s, where we see the early days of Professor X and Magneto. It's a fantastic origin story that explores the beginnings of the X-Men. We see how Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr, who are initially friends, come together to form a team of mutants. This movie focuses on the early relationship between these two powerful mutants, and the events that lead to their tragic and opposing ideologies. It's a crucial film to understanding the core conflict within the X-Men universe. The story involves the Cuban Missile Crisis, adding a layer of historical context to the mutant struggle for acceptance. The film introduces iconic characters like Mystique, Beast, and Havok, offering detailed origins and setting up their future roles. The visual style, reflecting the 1960s, is top-notch, with stylish costumes and sets that enhance the storytelling. The movie also explores themes of prejudice, discrimination, and the struggle for equality, which are central to the X-Men narrative. Seeing Xavier and Magneto in their early years gives deeper insight into their later decisions and the complex dynamic that drives the entire series. The film's emphasis on their initial bond and the events that fractured it is a masterclass in character development, which sets the stage for the conflicts we see throughout the rest of the X-Men films. The emotional weight of their split is significant, providing a strong narrative anchor for the series. X-Men: First Class is a must-watch to understand the origins and the crucial events that shape the series' events.

2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) (Partially)

Next up, we have X-Men: Days of Future Past. This film is a bit of a time-travel adventure, so it gets a little complicated. The majority of the movie takes place in 2023, but it also has a significant portion set in the past, specifically the 1970s. The story involves Wolverine being sent back in time to prevent a catastrophic event that leads to a dystopian future where mutants are hunted. The film cleverly integrates the original X-Men trilogy cast with the First Class cast, creating a brilliant blend of old and new. This film is crucial for understanding the overall story arc, as it helps to correct the timeline and set up a new future. It's an essential film in the X-Men saga, offering both action and emotional depth. Wolverine's journey to the past allows the film to revisit key events and characters, making it a critical watch to reset the timeline. The blending of casts is very unique, and provides a fresh perspective to the story. This film not only delivers great action but also a compelling narrative that keeps you engaged throughout. It's a brilliant example of how to handle time travel in a superhero movie, allowing for both action and emotional depth.

3. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

Following Days of Future Past, we head into the 1980s with X-Men: Apocalypse. This movie introduces Apocalypse, one of the most powerful villains in the X-Men universe. We get to see a younger version of the X-Men team, including Jean Grey, Cyclops, and Storm. The film is visually stunning, with great special effects and epic battles. It explores the themes of identity and the challenges of growing up. The story follows the rise of Apocalypse and the X-Men's fight to stop him. It's a fun ride with plenty of action and character development. The movie continues to build on the established foundations, adding new layers to the X-Men lore. It is visually engaging, and the introduction of new characters adds freshness to the series. The 1980s setting is nostalgic and well-executed, enhancing the viewing experience. X-Men: Apocalypse successfully blends action-packed sequences with complex character dynamics.

4. X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019)

X-Men: Dark Phoenix goes back to the '90s. This film delves into the story of Jean Grey and the Phoenix Force. The narrative focuses on Jean's struggle to control her immense powers and the challenges faced by the X-Men team as a result. The movie explores the consequences of unchecked power and the inner conflicts that can destroy even the strongest relationships. The film offers a deep dive into the emotional turmoil and the personal costs associated with extraordinary abilities. The emphasis on Jean's character arc highlights the emotional depth of the story. Dark Phoenix is a story of internal struggles and the choices that define heroism. The film's exploration of emotional depth gives a fresh take on the X-Men story. It adds complexity to Jean's character.

5. X-Men (2000)

Now, let's jump back to where it all began with X-Men (2000). This is the first film in the original X-Men trilogy and it introduced us to the world of mutants on the big screen. It lays the groundwork for the rest of the films. The movie established the main characters and the core conflict between Professor X and Magneto. It's a classic superhero origin story. This film set the stage for the success of the X-Men franchise, introducing us to beloved characters like Wolverine, Cyclops, and Storm. It addresses themes of prejudice and acceptance that would become central to the series. The film effectively balances action and character development. This is a must-watch for any X-Men fan.

6. X2: X-Men United (2003)

Next, we have X2: X-Men United. This sequel builds on the first film's success and takes the story to another level. The plot involves a threat to mutants and the X-Men team, which forces them to unite. It offers deeper exploration of the characters and their powers. The film enhances the characters, giving them complex motivations and backstories, deepening our connection to them. The movie focuses on the growing threat against mutants and the challenges they face. It features some of the best action sequences in the entire series. X2: X-Men United improves on the first film. The enhanced special effects and complex narrative make it a must-watch.

7. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

Wrapping up the original trilogy, we have X-Men: The Last Stand. This film is full of action and it tackles a lot of different storylines. The story involves a potential cure for mutations and a final battle between the X-Men and Magneto's forces. The film brings closure to some storylines while also raising new questions. The movie delivers an epic conclusion. It brings together several different characters to create an exciting experience. This film is an important milestone in the series. The effects, storyline, and the characters create a fun watching experience.

8. The Wolverine (2013)

After the original trilogy, we get The Wolverine. This film is a standalone movie focusing on Wolverine's journey. The story is set in Japan and involves Logan facing his own demons and fighting new enemies. The film gives a deep dive into Wolverine's character. The movie is known for its strong character development and emotional depth. It's a great action film that goes deeper into Wolverine's background. The Wolverine is essential for understanding his character.

9. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) (Partially)

Here we go again with X-Men: Days of Future Past, and this time we're watching the part of the movie that actually takes place in 2023. As mentioned before, this film features time travel, so it has portions set in the past and the future. The movie is essential for understanding the entire X-Men saga, as it helps to correct the timeline and set up a new future. It's an essential film in the X-Men saga, offering both action and emotional depth. It is also an important film to watch. This part sets up the future of the X-Men films.

10. Deadpool (2016)

Deadpool is a spin-off that became incredibly popular, and you should definitely watch it. Deadpool is a hilarious, action-packed film with a unique style. The movie's humor, combined with the superhero action, makes it stand out. Deadpool brought a different flavor to the X-Men universe, and you should not miss it.

11. Logan (2017)

Logan is a raw, emotional, and powerful film. It gives a look into Wolverine's last days. The movie is filled with emotion and action, and it offers closure to the Wolverine storyline. Logan is a must-watch for any X-Men fan who appreciates a well-crafted story.

12. Deadpool 2 (2018)

Deadpool 2 delivers even more humor and action than the first film. Deadpool 2 is a fun addition to the X-Men universe. The movie builds on the success of the first film.

13. The New Mutants (2020)

Lastly, we have The New Mutants, a horror-tinged take on the X-Men world. This film focuses on a group of young mutants. The movie offers a unique twist on the superhero genre.

Watching the Movies in Release Order

If you prefer, you can also watch the X-Men movies in the order they were released. Here's a quick breakdown of that: This order is a simpler way to view the movies. You experience the series as they came out. Watching the movies in release order provides a different perspective. Some viewers prefer this. This is the order they hit theaters. It's a solid way to enjoy the X-Men saga.

1. X-Men (2000)

2. X2: X-Men United (2003)

3. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

4. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

5. X-Men: First Class (2011)

6. The Wolverine (2013)

7. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

8. Deadpool (2016)

9. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

10. Logan (2017)

11. Deadpool 2 (2018)

12. X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019)

13. The New Mutants (2020)

Conclusion

There you have it, guys! Whether you choose to follow the chronological order or the release order, you're in for a treat with the X-Men movies. Each film has its own unique strengths, and the entire series offers a wealth of action, drama, and memorable characters. Enjoy the ride, and get ready to be amazed by the world of the X-Men! I hope this guide helps you navigate the X-Men cinematic universe with ease. Now go watch those movies!