The X-Men, initially gracing comic book pages, have captivated audiences through their film adaptations, featuring beloved characters like Patrick Stewart's Professor X and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. However, navigating the X-Men film timeline can be a challenge, with its intricate blend of origin stories, retcons, and time travel. Your viewing order significantly impacts how plot twists and character arcs unfold.
While a simple release-date viewing is tempting, we've structured the 14 films to approximate a cohesive timeline. This approach allows you to experience the X-Men saga from its earliest moments, tracing each character's journey from inception.
Confused about the X-Men movie timeline's relationship to the MCU? We've got a guide explaining it (as best we can)!
With mutants now part of the MCU, we believe honoring the past is the best way to prepare for the future. For those preferring the release order, we've included that below.
Here's a mostly spoiler-free guide to watching the X-Men movies chronologically!
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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?
New to the X-Men films? Start with First Class for a chronological journey. However, for the original theatrical experience, begin with X-Men (2000), the series' launch point.
X-Men Blu-Ray Collection
Contains 10 movies. See it at Amazon
X-Men Movies in Chronological Order
1. X-Men: First Class (2011)
X-Men: First Class begins a new chapter, rewinding to the franchise's earliest point. Starting in 1944 at Auschwitz, it jumps to 1962, showcasing young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, and the origins of the X-Men and the Brotherhood.
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 blends X-Men from both eras, making its placement tricky. Primarily set in 1973, it also features an alternate 2023. Its time-bending narrative allows placement here, but enjoying the original cast enhances the experience. It could also be viewed near the end.
Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.
X-Men: Days of Future Past Marvel Studios
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...(continues in the same style for the remaining films)
