The X-Men franchise, originating from Marvel Comics, has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling and beloved characters, such as Patrick Stewart’s Professor X and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine. However, the film adaptations are known for their complicated timelines, filled with origin stories, retconning, and time travel. This can make it challenging to decide the best way to watch these films. To help you navigate the intricate web of X-Men narratives, we’ve organized all 13 films in chronological order, allowing you to experience the saga from its very beginnings.
X-Men Movies in Chronological Order
1. X-Men: First Class (2011)
Timeline: 1944–1962
X-Men: First Class takes us back to the origins of the X-Men, starting with a harrowing scene in Auschwitz during 1944 before jumping to 1962. The film explores the formative years of Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto (Michael Fassbender), showcasing their beginnings and the early conflicts between the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants. This film sets the stage for everything that follows.
2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
Timeline: 1973 and an alternate 2023
In X-Men: Days of Future Past, the narrative becomes more complex as it intertwines characters from both the original trilogy and the prequel series. The majority of the film unfolds in 1973, while also providing glimpses into a dystopian 2023. Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is sent back in time to prevent a pivotal event that could lead to the downfall of mutantkind. This film not only serves as a bridge between timelines but also revitalizes the franchise.
3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
Timeline: 1845 and 1979
X-Men Origins: Wolverine dives into the backstory of Logan/Wolverine, beginning in 1845 and moving through his life leading up to 1979. The film reveals how Wolverine acquires his iconic adamantium claws and introduces us to other notable characters, including a different take on Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds. While it has its flaws, this film is crucial for understanding Wolverine’s character arc.
4. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
Timeline: 3600 BC and 1983
Set across millennia, X-Men: Apocalypse features the ancient mutant En Sabah Nur (Oscar Isaac), who awakens in 1983 to challenge the new generation of X-Men. The film begins in 3600 BC, showing the origins of Apocalypse, before moving to the ’80s, where the younger X-Men face their greatest threat yet.
5. X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019)
Timeline: 1975 and 1992
X-Men: Dark Phoenix explores the transformation of Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) into the Phoenix. The story kicks off in 1975 but is primarily set in 1992, focusing on the team as they navigate the ramifications of Jean’s growing powers. This film serves as a conclusion to the rebooted timeline established in First Class.
6. X-Men (2000)
Timeline: Early 2000s
The original X-Men film introduces the core team led by Professor X and Magneto. Taking place in the early 2000s, this film sets the stage for the conflicts that will unfold in the following installments. It showcases the societal tensions between humans and mutants, setting up many character arcs and conflicts.
7. X2: X-Men United (2003)
Timeline: Shortly after X-Men
Continuing directly from the first film, X2: X-Men United follows the X-Men as they face a new threat from a military government. The film expands on the lore of the X-Men universe, delving into the backstories of various characters, including Nightcrawler and Wolverine.
8. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Timeline: After X2
In X-Men: The Last Stand, the storyline confronts the Phoenix saga. Jean Grey, who was presumed dead, returns with formidable powers, causing a rift within the X-Men. This film wraps up the original trilogy, setting up a climactic showdown between humans and mutants.
9. The Wolverine (2013)
Timeline: After The Last Stand
The Wolverine acts as both a sequel to X-Men Origins: Wolverine and X-Men: The Last Stand. Set primarily in Japan, this film focuses on Wolverine’s struggle with his past and his quest for redemption. It introduces Yukio, who plays a significant role in Wolverine’s journey.
10. Deadpool (2016)
Timeline: 2016
Although it operates largely outside the main X-Men narrative, Deadpool still exists within the same universe. This film offers a fresh, irreverent take on the superhero genre, with Ryan Reynolds portraying the titular character. Its timeline is contemporary, reflecting the year of its release.
11. Deadpool 2 (2018)
Timeline: Late 2020s (approx.)
Deadpool 2 continues the story of Wade Wilson, incorporating references and characters from the broader X-Men universe. While it doesn’t fit neatly into the overall timeline, it includes elements that connect it back to the original series, making it a fun watch within the franchise.
12. The New Mutants (2020)
Timeline: Late 2020s
Set in a more contained narrative, The New Mutants introduces a new group of young mutants as they navigate their powers and the dark secrets of their facility. Although it’s loosely connected to the X-Men series, it primarily stands alone.
13. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
Timeline: 2024
This upcoming crossover film will bring Deadpool back alongside Wolverine, complicating the already tangled timeline further. While it’s set in the release year of 2024, its references to various timelines make it a unique addition that promises to blend humor and action with classic X-Men themes.
14. Logan (2017)
Timeline: 2029
Logan serves as a poignant conclusion to Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine. Set in a dystopian future where mutants are nearly extinct, it explores themes of aging and legacy, showcasing the end of an era for one of the franchise’s most iconic characters. The emotional weight and character development make it a powerful film to finish the series on.
X-Men Movies in Release Order
For those who prefer to watch the X-Men films as they were released, here is the list in chronological order of their debut:
- X-Men (2000)
- X2: X-Men United (2003)
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
- X-Men: First Class (2011)
- The Wolverine (2013)
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
- Deadpool (2016)
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
- Logan (2017)
- Deadpool 2 (2018)
- Dark Phoenix (2019)
- The New Mutants (2020)
- Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
Conclusion
Watching the X-Men films in chronological order offers a unique perspective on the complex narratives and character developments within the franchise. Each film contributes to a larger tapestry of stories, intertwining themes of friendship, betrayal, and the fight for acceptance. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this viewing guide provides a comprehensive roadmap through the X-Men universe. Enjoy the journey through time, powers, and the struggles of mutants in a world that often fears them!