The X-Men franchise, beloved for its iconic characters and thrilling stories, has captured the hearts of fans through its cinematic adaptations. With standout performances from actors like Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, these films have become fan favorites despite their complex and often convoluted timelines. The series is known for its intricate plot twists, including origin stories, retcons, and time-travel elements, which add a unique flavor to the viewing experience. The choice of how to watch these films can greatly influence the impact of certain plot points and character developments.
For those looking to dive into the X-Men saga, we've arranged the 14 films into a rough chronological order, allowing viewers to follow the story from its earliest moments and trace the evolution of each character. This approach provides a cohesive narrative journey, starting from the origins of the X-Men and their adversaries.
For those curious about how the X-Men movie timeline fits within the larger universe and its relation to the MCU, we offer a detailed explanation at the provided link.
With mutants now officially part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), revisiting the past of the X-Men franchise can be a great way to prepare for future developments. For those who prefer watching the films in the order they were released, we've included that list below as well.
Here is a mostly spoiler-free guide to watching the X-Men movies in chronological order:
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- How to watch in chronological order
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The X-Men Movies in (Chronological) Order
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Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?
If you're new to the X-Men movie franchise, starting with "X-Men: First Class" will allow you to follow the timeline chronologically. However, if you wish to experience the films as they were originally released, begin with "X-Men" (2000), the film that kicked off the series.
X-Men Blu-Ray Collection
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X-Men Movies in Chronological Order
1. X-Men: First Class (2011)
"X-Men: First Class" marks the beginning of a new chapter in the X-Men saga, setting the timeline back to its earliest point. The film opens in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp before fast-forwarding to 1962. It follows the young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto as they form the foundations of the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.
Read our review of X-Men: First Class.
X-Men: First Class
20th Century Fox
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2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
"X-Men: Days of Future Past" is challenging to place on the timeline as it intertwines characters from both the original and newer films. The story primarily unfolds in 1973 but also includes scenes set in an alternate 2023. Its placement here is influenced by specific plot elements, though it can also be viewed near the end of the list. Fans of the original cast will find this film particularly rewarding.
Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.
X-Men: Days of Future Past
Marvel Studios
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- Bryan Singer on Twitter
3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
"X-Men Origins: Wolverine" (2009) starts in 1845, but the main story unfolds in 1979, exploring the origin of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine character. This film is crucial for understanding how Wolverine obtained his adamantium claws and introduces Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson/Deadpool.
Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Marvel Studios
PG-13
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