False God!!! New X-Men Delivers In Performances But Sputters With Pacing and Plot.
Review By Brandon Porter
 |
| Wrath of God |
Story Description
Throughout history, mutants have been a misunderstood species in the make up of mankind. Feared because of their abilities and appearance, some mutants are ridiculed and even seen as threats. However, early ages of humanity, secret societies saw mutants as a sign of a higher power of God. Ancient Egyptian scholars have discovered that a powerful being arose in the early days of civilization and is said to be the world's first ever mutant. That being, known as Apocalypse (Oscar Issac), has returned to reclaim earth for mutant kind by destroying humanity and anyone that stands in his way. With four powerful mutant followers at his side, Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and his students must face their most devastating enemy yet to save the planet from the wrath of a vengeful and unstoppable God.
 |
| Erik Claims Charles for His New Master |
Critical and Financial Analysis
After the critical and financial success of X-Men Days of Future Past, Bryan Singer prepared to take the mutant superhero franchise the next level by introducing one of the most iconic and powerful villains in the comic book. X-Men Apocalypse looked to build on the positive momentum established in DOFP and create a Cinematic spectacle for fans and audiences alike. Critically, the film has been met with underwhelming reactions. The film garnered a below average score of 49% from critics via rotten tomatoes. Criticism came from the clichéd villian and the overloaded action which they felt took away from resonate themes and solid all around performances throughout the film. It did however garned a much more favorable 75% fresh rating from the general public. Financially, the film performed well over the memorial day weekend culminating a solid $65 million over the holiday. X-Men Apocalypse seemed to have been an underwhelming experience for those who witnessed DOFP two years ago, but the financial haul and audience reaction tell a different story for the latest entry in the franchise.
 |
| Always Great To Have Some Much Needed Back-up |
Film Review
The X-Men franchise has been a part of my childhood since I was a kid. The characters and the actors that have portrayed them have become a foundation setting staple for modern superhero films. After the amazing experience that was Days of Future Past, I was eager to see how the sequel would incorporate one of the most iconic X-men villains into the franchise. After seeing the film, I can conclude that the film is a good yet very flawed installment in the franchise. From the start, I knew trying to top Days of Future Past was going to be a tall order in itself. The film brings in one of the most powerful characters in the comic book series and bring him to the screen. Apocalypse has a lot of things going for it despite the issues. One of which is the performances. The actors on screen help the film weather the storm throughout. James McAvoy brings in some great balance of wisdom and humor making for a very fun performance. Michael Fassbender, however, is the film's biggest stand out. He portrays Magneto's tragic story arc with terrific depth and emotional levity. Out of all the X-Men films he has been in, I consider this to be his best. Others like Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, and Rose Bryne are good in the screen time they are given. Fan favorite Evan Peters' return as Quicksilver is twice as fun this time around with him delivering some truly spectacular and hilarious moments. As for the newcomers playing Jean, Scott, Storm and Nigthcrawler, they all do a standout job in their roles. Tye Shiridan is very solid as Scott perfectly displaying someone unsure of their own abilities. Sophie Turner is also a standout as Jean Grey. Playing such an iconic role dose not come easy, but Turner pulls off a very convincing Jean. Alexandra Shipp and Kodi Smit McPhee are equally great as Storm and Nightcrwler respectively both giving authentic and true to character performances. Oscar Issac works with what he has as the films main villain but his presence is a little too cartoonish and doesn't really leave a lasting impact. Despite the strong performances, issues with film such as slow buildup and pacing as well as a very non-engaging plot really robbed the film of its potential. What made it's predecessor so special is that there were genuine stakes where as the stakes in this movie were little to non existent. Overall, X-Men Apocalypse attempts to build off of the momentum of its predecessor, but it ultimately culminates into a flawed yet still solidly entertaining installment. If the right choices and adjustments were made, who knows what the film might have accomplished in the super hero genre.
Rating and Final Thoughts
 |
| Slow pacing and an unengaging plot hold back the latest installment of the X-Men series despite strong performances and memorable moments. |
 |
| With big changes coming to the franchise, an uncertain future awaits for the most beloved cast of characters in the Marvel universe |
No comments:
Post a Comment