X Men 3 does the job, too! (X-Men - The Last Stand (DVD))

Member Name: pmcds

Product:	X-Men - The Last Stand (DVD)
Date:	16/03/08 (40 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: fast moving plot and a bunch of new characters

Disadvantages: A bit far-fetched in places

The first 2 X-Men films, cunningly titled 'X-Men' and X-Men 2', met with success, and not without merit. The first film set the scene, a film awaited for so long. The second built on the success and energy of the first and took it to the next level with a deeper plot. The third, here, is entitled 'X-Men: The Last Stand', so you can see what they're gearing up to, here, can't you? And the thrid film, released in 2006, does not disappoint.

Historical

In 1963, the X Men were created as a comic book idea of men and women possessing quirky mutations due to a defective genetic evolution. It took off, rating as one of the most popular comics, and still goes strong nowadays. Cartoon series have been made, and then in 2000, Bryan Singer directed an all star cast in X-Men. Director and cast returned in 2003 for the sequel, X2.

The Plot

The Last Stand throws everything but the kitchen sink at the viewer. We have the returning cast and director, as well as a horde of new characters with familiar actors and actresses taking their places on the Marvel stage for this blockbuster.

Having defended mutantkind against Colonel Stryker in X2, the X-Men and followers of Magneto once more part company and turn their attentions to their struggle with each other. A cure has been found, one to rid mutants of their mutations that make them so. Many are for the cure, but an equal number oppose it. With the X-Men and Magneto in agreement in getting rid of the cure, we see the different ways in which they set about doing so, with destructive consequences.

The Cast and Performances

The original cast from the first two films return in this third installment. Again, Hugh Jackman takes centre stage as Wolverine, with Halle Berry as Storm and James Marsden as Cyclops following closely behind as the X-Men, led by Patrick Stewart's Professor X, who are now joined by some matured students from the Xavier School, where mutants are taught the value of their powers when used responsibly.

Ian McKellen once more plays Magneto, and returns with familiar sidekick Mystique. They are joined by a horde of mutants and form the 'Brotherhood', mutants determined on extinguishing the possibility of a cure no matter the cost! The pick of these is probably ex-footballer turned hard man actor Vinnie Jones as Juggernault, although Kelsey Grammar provides a nice sophisticated touch as Beast!

There are very good performances from all the cast, and no one character stands out a great deal above the rest, such is the nature of the plot. One exception to this may be Jean Grey/Phoenix, played by Famke Janssen fantastically. The alter-ego nature of the Phoenix has been captured perfectly by Janssen in my view, and she performs better than the other actors on show here.

My Opinion

I liked this film more than the other two X Men films. It had much more detail and action, and I was not bored once. I did not feel it dragged in the slightest, and there are some plot twist which make you wonder if ehat you have seen is actually the case. This happens a few times, none more so than the very end of the film (I shall not spoil it for you, don't worry!)

I do like this film. At times, it runs the risk of being too far-fetched, and I am sure many would find this to be the case, but it does not stop it from being a brilliant action film with a stellar cast all performing well with the benefit of the two previous films under their belt.

Conclusion

On a par with the other two X Men films, if a little higher due to the continuous nature of the plot. This film does not drag, the other two did in places. This is perhaps a result of director Brett Ratner taking over from Bryan Singer at the helm. I rate this film at 4 stars out of 5.

Special Features

These are multiple, and excel compared to the extras on the first two films. There are many deleted scenes, 3 alternate endings, trailers, some concept art, and then a whole host of documentaries, including an audio commentary by the director Brett Ratner.

The DVD is available from amazon.co.uk for £4.97 new for the 2-disc edition.

This review may also be posted on ciao.co.uk

Thanks for reading.

Summary: X Men 3 - The Last Stand (2006) great 3rd film