"X-Men: Days of Future
Past" brings all of fans' favorite Marvel Comics mutants back to the big
screen for a fast-paced saga that melds the future with the past. Directed by
Bryan Singer, "X-Men: Days of Future Past" takes the audience on an
action-packed adventure from a future time that threatens the existence of both
mutants and humans to the distant 1970s with hopes that the current future can
be changed. Strong, emotional characterizations and a close connection with the
mutant characters makes this film a winner for both X-Men fans and general
audiences.
"X-Men: Days of Future
Past" opens in a dystopian future in which a formidable race of robots
known as Sentinels are terrorizing the world. Originally created to destroy
mutants, the robotic race is now attacking humans in general and threatening
the future of all life on earth. The X-Men gather together to come up with a
plan to fight this menace. The solution lies in a return to the past to change
events so that the Sentinels will never be developed.
The job of changing the past
falls on Wolverine, and much of the rest of the movie takes place in 1973 when
the younger Wolverine, inhabited by the consciousness of the future Wolverine,
works to convince Charles Xavier and Magneto to work together to save the
future. Time cues involving technology, music and character appearance do a
good job of showing which time frame is being presented in specific scenes. The
plot works to integrate both old and new X-Men characters and includes many
references to other X-Men film and comic book plots. Not all of the mutants
have a lot of screen time or important roles, but the flawless integration of
so many favorites will please old and new X-Men fans looking for a character
fix.
Hugh Jackman as Wolverine is
the star of the film. His convincing performance focuses on Wolverine's inner
strength as he navigates two different worlds working to remain strong and
steady while trying to convince a variety of personalities to work together.
James McAvoy as the young Charles Xavier and Michael Fassbender as the young
Magneto play strong supporting roles. Excellent chemistry between the trio
increases the believability of the plot as Wolverine works to build his case
for the necessity of preventing the future from which he has returned.
Another notable performance
comes from Evan Peters as Quicksilver. His fast-paced action scenes steal the
show with the addition of realistic choreography and stunning visual effects.
Quality, fast-paced dialogue provides a wonderful match for Quicksilver's quick
movements and show a quirky, fun side to the character. Peter Dinklage brings
villain Bolivar Trask to life as a three-dimensional character with both
strengths and weaknesses, and Jennifer Lawrence brings emotional depth to the
role of Mystique. Depending on the scene, Lawrence alternately shows Mystique's
dark, evil side as well as a more human sympathetic side that gives audiences a
deeper understanding of her personality.
"X-Men: Days of Future
Past" combines the fast-paced fun of a superhero movie with the emotional
involvement of a more serious drama. All of the film's elements work together
to heighten the viewer's emotional response. A rousing score by John Ottman
brings back musical themes from some of the other X-Men movies to provide
continuity to the film. A combination of great digital effects and traditional
staging bring to life a wide range of over-the-top scenes in a realistic
manner. Digital effects also enhance the appearance of the Sentinels, driving
home their scare factor and increasing the urgency of Wolverine's errand.
Underlying the fun
action-adventure feel of "X-Men: Days of Future Past" is a serious
theme. The Sentinels were developed in reaction to humanity's fear of the
unknown, and this fear flickers underneath much of the plot of the movie,
giving it depth. A secondary theme is the power of hope. The X-Men of the
future derive strength from the hope of a changed past, and the X-Men of the
past learn to hope again as they come to believe Wolverine.
"X-Men: Days of Future Past" ends
with a glimpse towards a sequel, "X-Men: Apocalypse," which is set to
be released in 2016. Foreshadowing throughout the movie hints towards more past
and future interplay in the upcoming release. If "X-Men: Days of Future
Past" is any indication, the new film should further show the live-action
comic book adaptation as more than a fun action film for fans. It is truly a
well-developed movie in its own right.
For the past 6 years, Zack
Mandell has been a contributing writer for Gossip Center's general
entertainment news department. In addition, he currently owns and manages the
movie website, http://www.movieroomreviews.com.
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