How to Watch the X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

The X-Men, initially gracing comic book pages, have captivated audiences through their cinematic 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, with its intricate blend of origin stories, retcons, and time travel. Your viewing order significantly impacts how plot twists and character arcs unfold.

While a simple release-date viewing is easy, we've structured these 14 films into a *rough* chronological order. This approach allows you to follow each character's journey from its earliest beginnings, experiencing the X-Men saga in a more cohesive narrative.

Confused about the X-Men movie timeline's relationship to both its own universe and the MCU? We've got a guide that explains it all (as best we can)! With mutants now part of the MCU, celebrating the past is the perfect way to prepare for the future. If you prefer the release order, that's included below.

Here's our mostly spoiler-free guide to watching the X-Men movies chronologically!

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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 *First Class* and proceeding chronologically is recommended. However, to experience the films as initially released, begin with *X-Men* (2000), the series' starting 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, it then jumps to 1962, chronicling young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto's origins, and the birth of both the X-Men and the Brotherhood.
*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* is chronologically complex, featuring X-Men from both the original and newer films. Primarily set in 1973, it also explores an alternate 2023. Its placement here is justified by certain (unspoiled) plot points, enhancing the experience for fans of the original cast. Alternatively, it could be placed near the end.
*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 the "[ttpp]" with the appropriate content.