The X-Men movies have been around since 2000 - long enough to either know this franchise or not. I’m in the ‘not’ category here. I mean, when I heard the name “Charles Xavier” spoken, I felt like I should know who that is but I didn’t. (I just think of this. Niche interest/bogan alert!)
But here’s the thing. I kind of enjoyed this! It’s as silly as all get out but it’s a world of fantasy so if you can be open to it, the sillier the better, really. There’s action, cool effects and big-name actors (Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender, Jessica Chastain, Sophie Turner et al) … if that’s all you need then this will be right up your alley. If you need a good storyline, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
But here’s the other side of the coin… I’m hearing that fans of the series are hating this film. I clearly can’t reflect on it from that perspective (is it really pronounced e-Xavier?! Whhyyyy?!) so you might wish to read this two star review in The Guardian or this more generous three star review in Timeout.
For some comic relief, please know that in this film Jessica Chastain is channeling me* when I’ve left it too long between lash tints:
X-Men: Dark Phoenix is in cinemas now and is rated M. Trailer here.
*If I were significantly thinner and hotter.