Review of X2 (2003) by Stevenf — 24 May 2013

There was just no wrong step taken with X2, the characters were interestingly developed, the set pieces were simply sublime and imaginative to the point of positive disbelief, and wonderfully emotional, funny and heartbreaking story was fleshed out in the two hours of this fantastic sequel.

Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) returns to Xavier's school after searching for clues as to where he came from, and how he received his indestructible abilities, Xavier (Patrick Stewart) is reluctant to delve deeper into Wolverines past, but also has other matters to attend to. After an attack on the White House, carried out by a mutant, there is continuing pressure once again to go so far as to detain mutants.

But not forgetting minor characters from the first, Jean Grey (Famke Janssen) has a much more pivotal and expanded role in X2, she is still quite shaken from the events of the first film to the point where she is unable to concentrate on her powers, she truly is powerful, but unable to harness it.

With Magneto (Ian McKellan) in plastic solitary confinement, the master of metal continues to stand for what he truly believes in, his brotherhood of mutants, of how they are the next stage of evolution.

The story moves at a quick and action packed pace, as someone emerges from Wolverines past that he doesn't fully understand. He must search for answers, but a massive turn of events may soon change that.

The characters are on top form throughout this film, and it is remarkable to see so many exciting personalities all having their time to shine in 120 mins. Hugh Jackman continues to bring out the ruthless yet often caring Wolverine, also returning is Anna Paquin as Rogue, and also Iceman played in a bigger capacity from Shawn Ashmore.

This film continues to appear on many lists as one of the best superhero films, and for good reason. It has a mixture of interesting prospects, a riveting story, groundbreaking special effects and a cast that are simply too intriguing to ignore. Ian McKellan in particular delivers a thrilling performance as the anti-hero Magneto, along with Mystique and even a few familiar faces, they all must band together to save themselves from a much more mysterious foe, one who of course might just have more knowledge on the X-Men, and their capabilities, than they do themselves.