Counting the Men- A Comprehensive Guide to the Number of ‘X-Men’ Movies in the Franchise
How many X-Men movies are there? This is a common question among fans and newcomers alike, as the X-Men franchise has become a cornerstone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With its rich history and diverse characters, the X-Men have captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide. In this article, we will explore the number of X-Men movies, their release years, and some of the most memorable moments from the series.
The X-Men movie series began with the release of “X-Men” in 2000, directed by Bryan Singer. This film introduced audiences to the iconic characters such as Professor Charles Xavier, played by Patrick Stewart, and Erik Lehnsherr, also known as Magneto, portrayed by Ian McKellen. Since then, the X-Men franchise has grown exponentially, with several spin-offs, sequels, and adaptations.
As of now, there are a total of 13 X-Men movies, including both standalone films and those that are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Here’s a breakdown of the movies in the series:
1. X-Men (2000)
2. X2: X-Men United (2003)
3. The X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
4. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
5. X-Men: First Class (2011)
6. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
7. Logan (2017)
8. Deadpool (2016)
9. Deadpool 2 (2018)
10. New Mutants (2020)
11. X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019)
12. The New Mutants (2020)
13. X-Men: The Rising (2023)
The first three films, directed by Bryan Singer, laid the foundation for the franchise and introduced many of the characters that would become fan favorites. “X2: X-Men United” is often regarded as one of the best superhero movies ever made, thanks to its compelling story and character development.
In 2009, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” brought the focus to the character of Logan, portrayed by Hugh Jackman. This film served as a prequel to the original X-Men trilogy and explored the origins of Wolverine’s powers and his relationship with Professor Xavier.
“X-Men: First Class” marked a new direction for the series, introducing the younger versions of the iconic characters and setting the stage for future MCU films. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, this film received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and stellar performances.
“X-Men: Days of Future Past” brought together the casts of the original trilogy and “First Class,” creating a time-traveling adventure that tied the series together beautifully. This film also marked the debut of the Brotherhood of Mutants, a group of rogue X-Men led by Magneto.
In 2017, “Logan” served as a standalone film for the character of Wolverine, chronicling his final adventures before his death. Directed by James Mangold, this film received critical acclaim for its emotional storytelling and departure from the traditional superhero genre.
“Deadpool” and its sequel, “Deadpool 2,” brought a unique and humorous take on the X-Men universe, showcasing the character of Wade Wilson, also known as Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds. These films are known for their witty dialogue and over-the-top action sequences.
The latest additions to the X-Men movie series include “New Mutants,” a film that delves into the lives of a group of young X-Men-in-training, and “X-Men: Dark Phoenix,” which focuses on the character of Jean Grey and her transformation into the dark Phoenix.
In conclusion, there are a total of 13 X-Men movies, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the X-Men universe. From epic battles to heart-wrenching stories, these films have provided audiences with endless entertainment and memorable moments. As the X-Men continue to evolve, we can only wonder what new adventures await in the future.