"X-Men Movies: Chronological Viewing Guide"

The X-Men franchise, while renowned for its comic book origins, has garnered a significant following through its movie adaptations. Iconic performances by actors like Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine have become fan favorites. However, these films are notorious for their complex and often convoluted timelines, featuring origin stories, retcons, and time travel that add layers of intrigue to the viewing experience. The way you choose to watch these films can significantly impact how certain plot points and character developments are revealed.

While it's tempting to watch them in the order of their release, we've curated a list that aligns the 14 films into a rough chronological timeline. This approach allows you to follow the X-Men story from its inception and trace each character's journey from their earliest moments.

Confused about how the X-Men movie timeline fits into the universe of the films and its connection to the MCU? Follow the link for a detailed explanation.

With mutants now part of the MCU, we believe revisiting the past is the best way to prepare for the future. For those who prefer watching in the order of release, we've included that list as well.

Here's our mostly spoiler-free guide on how to watch the X-Men movies in chronological order:

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• How to watch in chronological order
• How to watch by release order

The X-Men Movies in (Chronological) Order

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Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?

If you're new to the X-Men movie franchise, starting with "X-Men: First Class" and progressing through the timeline chronologically is a great way to dive in. However, if you want to experience the films as they were originally released to audiences, begin with "X-Men" (2000), where the series officially kicked off.

X-Men Blu-Ray Collection

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X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

1. X-Men: First Class (2011)

"X-Men: First Class" marks the beginning of a new chapter in the X-Men saga, taking us back to the earliest point in the franchise's timeline. The film opens in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp and then jumps to 1962, exploring the origins of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr, who later becomes Magneto. It also delves into the formation of both the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.

Read our review of X-Men: First Class.

X-Men: First Class
20th Century Fox
Jun 3, 2011

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2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" is challenging to place on the timeline as it involves characters from both the original and newer films. The story primarily unfolds in 1973, with significant scenes set in an alternate 2023. Certain plot elements, which we'll keep under wraps, justify its placement here, but a fondness for the original cast enhances the viewing experience. Alternatively, it can be watched near the end of this list.

Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.

X-Men: Days of Future Past
Marvel Studios
May 23, 2014

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3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

The first X-Men spinoff movie begins in 1845 but largely takes place in 1979, delving into the origins of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. This film not only explains how Wolverine got his iconic adamantium claws but also introduces Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson, later known as Deadpool. It's a crucial chapter in Wolverine's story.

Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Marvel Studios
Apr 29, 2009
PG-13

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