The X-Men franchise, known for its iconic characters like Patrick Stewart's Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, has captivated audiences through its film adaptations. These movies are renowned for their complex timelines, featuring origin stories, retcons, and time travel that add layers of intrigue to the narrative. There are multiple ways to enjoy these films, and the order in which you watch them can significantly impact how certain plot points and character developments unfold.
While it's straightforward to watch the films in the order of their release, we've arranged the 14 movies into a rough chronological timeline. This approach allows you to experience the X-Men saga from its earliest moments and follow the evolution of each character's journey.
If you're curious about how the X-Men movie timeline fits into the broader universe and its relation to the MCU, follow this link for a detailed explanation.
With mutants now part of the MCU, we believe the best way to prepare for future developments is to celebrate the past. For those who prefer to watch the films in the order they were released, we've included that list below as well.
Here's a 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, you can start with "X-Men: First Class" to follow the timeline chronologically. However, if you want to experience the films as they were originally released to audiences, begin with "X-Men" (2000), where the series officially started.
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 starts in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp and then jumps to 1962. It follows the young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto as they form the origins 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
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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 features characters from both the original and newer films. The story primarily takes place in 1973, with significant scenes set in an alternate 2023. Certain plot elements, which we won't spoil here, justify its placement at this point in the timeline. However, fans of the original cast will find this film particularly rewarding. It can also be viewed near the end of the list if preferred.
Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.
X-Men: Days of Future Past
Marvel Studios
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Related Guides
- Overview
- Plot
- Cast and Characters
- Bryan Singer on Twitter
3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
The first X-Men spinoff movie begins in 1845, but the main storyline unfolds in 1979, exploring the origins of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. This film not only shows how he acquired his iconic adamantium claws but also introduces Ryan Reynolds' Wade Wilson/Deadpool. It's a crucial part of the Wolverine timeline.
Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Marvel Studios
PG-13
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