In a sea of sloppy sequels (Pirates of the Caribbean 4) and rote remakes (The Hangover Part 2), X-men: First Class immediately stands out for simply being something different — good.

Taking a leaf out of the J.J. Abrams Star Trek reboot, First Class goes back to the beginning by introducing us to Marvel’s family of mutants before their allegiances were set in stone, effectively reenergising the flagging franchise by focusing on character rather than the computerised chaos they cause. Under Matthew Vaughn’s taught direction, First Class is thoughtful without ever getting too serious, funny without being overly silly, and thrilling without being too repetitive. It’s undoubtedly the most satisfying blockbuster release of the year.

Now, let’s just wait and see what Super 8 has to say about that.

For my full review of X-Men: First Class, watch my video review below: