How to Watch the X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

The X-Men, initially gracing comic books, have earned a devoted following through their film adaptations, notably featuring Patrick Stewart's Professor X and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. These films, however, are infamous for their convoluted timeline, a 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 tempting, we've structured the 14 films to approximate a cohesive timeline. This approach allows you to follow each character's journey from its inception, experiencing the X-Men saga chronologically.

Confused about the X-Men movie timeline's relationship to the MCU? Follow this link for clarification (to the best of our ability!).

With mutants now part of the MCU, we believe honoring the past best prepares us for the future. If you prefer the release order, that's included below.

Here’s a 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, experiencing the films as originally released begins with *X-Men* (2000).

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 progresses to 1962, depicting young Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, and the origins of the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.
*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*'s placement is complex, bridging the original and newer films. Primarily set in 1973, it also features an alternate 2023. Undisclosed plot points justify its position here, enhancing enjoyment 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]" placeholders with the actual content if any existed in the original.