X-Men Movies: Chronological Viewing Guide

The X-Men franchise, renowned for its iconic characters like Patrick Stewart’s Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, has captivated audiences not only in comic books but also through its cinematic adaptations. These films have garnered a dedicated fanbase, despite their complex and often convoluted timelines, featuring origin stories, retconning, and time travel elements that add depth and excitement to the series. The way you choose to watch these films can significantly impact how plot reveals and character developments unfold.

While it's straightforward to watch the films in their release order, we've meticulously arranged the 14 X-Men movies into a chronological timeline. This approach allows you to experience the narrative from its inception, tracing the evolution of each character from their earliest moments.

For those curious about the intricacies of the X-Men movie timeline and its relationship to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), follow the provided link for a comprehensive explanation.

With the recent integration of mutants into the MCU, revisiting the past becomes a fitting tribute as we anticipate future developments. For those preferring to watch the films in the order they were released, we've included that list below as well.

Here's a mostly spoiler-free guide to watching the X-Men movies in chronological order:

Jump to:

• How to watch in chronological order
• How to watch by release order

The X-Men Movies in (Chronological) Order

14 Images

Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?

If you're new to the X-Men movie franchise, starting with "X-Men: First Class" and following the chronological order is a great way to dive into the saga. However, if you prefer experiencing the films as they were originally presented to audiences, begin with "X-Men" (2000), which marks the official start of the series.

X-Men Blu-Ray Collection

88Contains 10 movies.See it at Amazon

X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

1. X-Men: First Class (2011)

"X-Men: First Class" sets the stage for the franchise by exploring the earliest moments of the X-Men timeline. The story begins in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp and jumps to 1962, chronicling the young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto as they form the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.

Read our review of X-Men: First Class.

X-Men: First Class20th Century Fox

Jun 3, 2011

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyBuyMore

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

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" presents a unique challenge in terms of its placement on the timeline, as it spans both the original and newer X-Men casts. The bulk of the story unfolds in 1973, with significant portions also occurring in an alternate 2023. While it can be positioned near the end, its narrative ties make it suitable here. Fans of the original cast will find this movie especially rewarding.

Read our review of X-Men: Days of Future Past.

X-Men: Days of Future PastMarvel Studios

May 23, 2014

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyRent/BuyMore

Related Guides

• Overview
• Plot
• Cast and Characters
• Bryan Singer on Twitter

3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

"X-Men Origins: Wolverine" marks the first spinoff in the series, beginning in 1845 but focusing primarily on events in 1979. It delves into the origin story of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, including the iconic adamantium claws and introduces Ryan Reynolds' Wade Wilson/Deadpool.

Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

X-Men Origins: WolverineMarvel Studios

Apr 29, 2009

PG-13

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyRent/BuyMore