X-Men Movie Chronological Viewing Guide

The X-Men, initially captivating audiences in comic books, have achieved cinematic stardom with beloved adaptations featuring iconic portrayals like Patrick Stewart's Professor X and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. However, navigating the X-Men film timeline can be a challenge, thanks to interwoven origin stories, retcons, and time travel. Your viewing order significantly impacts how plot twists and character arcs resonate. While a simple release-date viewing is possible, we've structured the 14 films to roughly align with a cohesive timeline, allowing you to experience the X-Men saga from its earliest moments and follow each character's journey chronologically.

Confused about the X-Men movie timeline within its own universe and its connection to the MCU? We've got you covered! [Link to explanation]. With mutants now part of the MCU, we believe honoring the past best prepares us for the future. For those preferring a release-date viewing order, we've included that option below.

Below is our mostly spoiler-free guide to watching the X-Men movies in chronological order!

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The X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

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Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?

For newcomers, starting with *X-Men: First Class* and following the chronological order provides a structured approach. However, experiencing the films as originally released involves beginning 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* initiates a new chapter, rewinding to the franchise's earliest point. Beginning in 1944 at Auschwitz, the story progresses to 1962, detailing the origins of Charles Xavier, Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, the X-Men, and the Brotherhood of Mutants.
*Read our review of X-Men: First Class.*
X-Men: First Class 20th Century Fox Jun 3, 2011

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2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

*X-Men: Days of Future Past* presents a timeline challenge, blending original and newer X-Men casts. Primarily set in 1973, it also features an alternate 2023. Its placement reflects key plot points (which we won't spoil). Alternatively, it could be placed near the end of this list.
*Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.*
X-Men: Days of Future Past Marvel Studios May 23, 2014

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and so on, following the same structure for the remaining films. Remember to replace "[Link to explanation]" with the actual link.