Review of X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) by Barney O — 27 Jan 2017

WHAT I LIKED: X-Men: Days of Future past is genious; but mostly it sticks out because the story makes for previously impossible character development that surprisingly rounds out these younger versions to a level of greater depth and interest. It's really because they're tested so much, even beyond the realms of feasable possibility, that you get to see them at their lowest points and understand their arcs seeing them at each end. However, there's no doubting it could have easily felt extremelly bizzare and out of place, but great performances and a comedic edge make for something that just feels so right. The fresh story also allows for the exploration of some new themes for the franchise too, and having Bryan Singer back to direct means the smarter edge is back with the cheesiness and smile it's surface-level meaning requires.

WHAT I DIDN'T: Much like where First Class is concerned, the actual writing is fairly weak, and whilst the longer run-time makes for a better exploration, I can't help feeling the big-moment to big-moment effect hinders the experience slightly.

VERDICT: This is a unique, fun and character driven entry to the X-Men series that's right up there with the best. Sequels are needed at all ends of this bizzare scale now, and for once I'm craving them like mad.