Sean Patrick reviews X-Men: Apocalypse, calling it the strongest entry in the recent X-Men trilogy, with standout performances from Michael Fassbender and Sophie Turner.
By Sean Patrick, Regional Media Film Critic
X-Men: Apocalypse, directed by Bryan Singer, is the latest chapter in the ever-evolving X-Men cinematic universe. Set ten years after the events of Days of Future Past, the film introduces a new timeline shaped by Wolverine’s time-traveling heroics. And in this revised history, a powerful ancient mutant named Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac) emerges with a grim plan to cleanse the world and build anew—with only mutants he deems worthy left standing.
The Plot
The X-Men must rally to stop him. Professor Xavier (James McAvoy), Mystique (Jennifer Lawrence), and Magneto (Michael Fassbender) return, alongside younger versions of classic characters like Jean Grey (Sophie Turner), Cyclops, and Nightcrawler, as students stepping into hero roles.
Apocalypse recruits his own Four Horsemen—including a lost and vengeful Magneto—and sets the stage for an all-out war between mutants that will define the future of their kind.
Why It Works
Among the recent trilogy (First Class, Days of Future Past, and Apocalypse), this is the most coherent and entertaining installment. The storytelling feels more focused, the tone better balanced, and the humor and pacing are much stronger than its predecessors.
Michael Fassbender gives a powerful, emotionally rich performance as Magneto. He’s given real stakes, and he delivers one of the best performances of the entire X-Men saga. Sophie Turner, as Jean Grey, is also a highlight—she brings subtlety and strength to her role and has several standout scenes that hint at the character’s future importance.
Mixed Performances
Unfortunately, Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique feels like she’s phoning it in. Her performance lacks energy and engagement, and at times it seems like she’d rather be anywhere else. It doesn’t ruin the film, but it does drag down some otherwise strong ensemble moments.
Final Verdict
Sure, there are plot holes you could nitpick, and some moments feel overly familiar for the franchise. But taken as a whole, X-Men: Apocalypse stands out as the most solid and satisfying entry in the recent X-Men reboot series.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
If you’re a fan of the X-Men universe or just looking for a fun, action-packed weekend watch, I do recommend checking it out.
I’m Sean Patrick. Thanks for reading.
