X-Men: Days of Future Past

Not that I had any doubts but finally a big budget summer movie that actually delivers. After a somewhat lackluster start to the season XMEN DOFP is exactly what the Dr ordered, providing audiences with thrills, laughs, special effects galore and most importantly, a meaningful and thought provoking narrative. In an excellent move, the film unites most of the cast from the original trilogy with the younger cast from First Class, introducing some classic favorites as well, all in an attempt to give fans as much mutant action as they can handle. However what allows this film to rise above the super hero pack is its insistence that the clever narrative take center stage and that the effects never overwhelm, but rather complement the story. The cast is essential in that regard with Jackman the early focal point, yet its McAvoy, Fassbender and Lawrence that really shine here, each finding terrific new layers with well worn characters. I could have done with maybe 1 more big, prolonged action scene but there is more than enough cool stuff going on to ensure the film is never slow and always entertaining. The best and most accomplished superhero film since The Avengers and a throughly enjoyable cinematic ride.