Hugh Jackman
James McAvoy
Michael Fassbender
Jennifer Lawrence
Halle Berry
Anna Paquin
Ellen Page
Peter Dinklage
Ian McKellen
Patrick Stewart

Simon Kinberg

132 mins.
Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
May 23, 2014

Rated PG- 13 for sequences of intense sci-fi violence and action, some suggestive material, nudity and language. (MPAA)

“X-Men: Days of Future Past” is a breath of fresh air amidst a 2014 summer blockbuster season that’s been disappointing so far. Bryan Singer is back as the director, and his return is certainly welcome. He has a sure hand that keeps things moving at the perfect pace and with a great feel.

However, he’s not the only one who makes a major contribution. This is a team effort: The writing’s thoughtful and clear as it juggles multiple characters and timelines (between 2023 and 1973). There’s time traveling and globe-trotting. There are funny moments that work and serious moments with depth. There’s also great attention to detail paid in regards to the history of 1973: “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” plays on the radio, President Nixon is present, the fashion is on display, and the camera footage is spot-on. There’s humor that comes from the time period, as well. “Sanford & Son” and “Star Trek,” anyone?

At the beginning of the film, Patrick Stewart is a wise choice to provide the voice-over introduction to the film; he provides some gravitas, right at the start. When you hear his voice, you get the sense that this film will deliver. And it does.

The entire cast does a great job of nailing the rhythms of the lines and the intellect and emotion of the characters. There are plenty of stars on display, but no one sticks out; this is an ensemble.

Overall, “X-Men: Days of Future Past” sweeps along rhythmically. The camera tunnels into its scenes à la “Inception.” The effects are seamless; all of the powers on display are clear and smoothly presented. As a whole, the entire film is very smooth. It hits all of its marks.

Unexpectedly, I found the 3D largely unnecessary (you can watch this in 2D and be just fine). But it does have its moments: Quicksilver’s major scene involving his redirection of bullets and opponents is heightened by the 3D presentation, the 70’s-style footage seems special as a result of 3D, and Magneto’s bullet that searches for Mystique’s body is highlighted by 3D. By the way, Quicksilver’s presence provides a nice kinetic disruption to the other events in the film, without being conspicuous.

I wouldn’t call “X-Men: Days of Future Past” a great film, but it’s certainly very good (really, really good, actually) and expertly made from top to bottom. And, by the end, everything that you’ve watched will pay off. You’ll feel satisfied. This was time well spent. Thank you.

Verdict: Very, Very Good

About: (Source: daysoffuturepastt)

The ultimate X-Men ensemble fights a war for the survival of the species across two time periods in X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST. The beloved characters from the original “X-Men” film trilogy join forces with their younger selves from “X-Men: First Class,” in an epic battle that must change the past – to save our future.