Review of X2 (2003) by Nikki W — 05 Sep 2012

This is a wonderful sequel that enhances everything about the first movie.

It begins with a truly impressive opening scene as Nightcrawler excellently played by Alan Cumming tries to get an audience with the President and is one of the movie's many standout moments!

Hugh Jackman looks utterly comfortable as Wolverine and has some lovely scenes opposite Patrick Stewart, increases the chemistry with Famke Janssen's Jean and fends off Mystique's interest! I also really enjoy Brian Cox's performance as Stryker and the scenes with the two characters are interesting and compelling. The fight scene between Wolverine and Kelly Hu's Yuriko is wonderfully filmed and both actors bring great emotion.

Magneto's escape from the plastic prison is inspired and Rebecca Romjin-Stamos helps Mystique to shine throughout the movie.

I love the growing relationship between Shawn Ashmore's Iceman and Anna Paquin's Rogue and Aaron Stanford as Pyro brings extra tension and fun!

There are also lovely moments between Storm and Nightcrawler and Halle Berry seems much more confident in her portrayal this time round.

I also really like James Marsden's more intense Cyclops as he shows just how much he cares about Jean and Professor Xavier.

The story is well written and beautifully played out by all ensuring this will be remembered as one of the best in the superhero genre!