X-Men 2

Given the genre, the slower pace of X-Men 2 is a handicap. More characters, more dialogue, more solving of problems than action. I wouldn’t have minded any of that if it weren’t 133 minutes long and if the dialogue didn’t somewhat fizzle out into nothing. X-Men 2 isn’t as deep as it pretends to be. But it’s just as intelligent and the characters are just as cool as they were in the first X-Men. (04/23/2003)

... and the potential opened by the first film is fulfilled in the second film. Bryan Singer is truly the master of masters and quite brave in terms of action sci-fi (fortunately, the number of these people is increasing), so he is not afraid to take his foot off the gas and let the story flow more slowly, but this means that he models the characters all the more thoroughly. Good (X-men) and "evil" (the torso of the Magneto group) unite in the fight against the unpredictable General Styler, who intends to abruptly end the mutant issue. The contradiction of Professor Xavier's opinion is even more problematic and the points go to the radical Magneto. Again, I have no choice but to praise the great actors – Stewart, who is not at the forefront as much this time, the charismatic and tough Jackman and, of course, the incredibly charming villain/non-villain played by Ian McKellen. Let's add points for great tricks, improved fights, great music and an ending that is not afraid to hand out surprising losses (unlike the first film). I really enjoy tensely watching how Singer builds a great film world that is adventurous, intelligent, immersive, and reasonably mirrors our world today. In addition, their world is inhabited by well-characterized heroes (newcomer Kurt Wagner is a true master!), with whom one can identify. Yes, this is what modern sci-fi action should be. (09/12/2004)

In the context of comic book adaptations, this is definitely one of the more successful endeavors, but it is also a common commercial product that did not convince me with what it had to offer. The first two films Singer directed have greater ambitions and strive for a certain depth of thought at least in their genre than, for example, Hood's purely popcorn teenage flick X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Although I gave it 4 stars, I admit that I have never been a fan of similar mainstream comics about superheroes and mutants. This kind of fairy tale for grown-ups simply tires me. In terms of acting, it is solid, and the direction cannot be denied high professionalism, but the script seemed somewhat chatty and diluted to me. Overall impression: 60%. (07/02/2010)

Brian Singer proves that even a movie based on a comic book can contain some psychological undertones. If you add precise directing, well-chosen cast, lots of ideas and an ingenious action sequence. In addition, they have the advantage that the movie worked even without any of the above, unlike most other popcorn movies recently. At last a picture that proves the rule that a sequel can be considerably better than its forerunner. (07/03/2007)

Honestly, one of the best comic-book adaptations I’ve ever seen (together with The Dark Night and Watchmen). Unlike the first part, X2 goes further in almost everything, has a better story and some brilliant and unforgettable scenes (Magneto’s escape from prison), and it’s excellent overall. 9/10 (09/25/2009)