The X-Men movie franchise, renowned for its comic origins, has captured hearts with its film adaptations, featuring iconic performances such as Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. These films are known for their complex timelines, with origins, retcons, and time travel adding layers of intrigue. The way you choose to watch these films can significantly impact how certain plot points and character arcs unfold.

While watching them in release order is straightforward, we've arranged the 14 films into a rough chronological order. This approach lets you follow the X-Men narrative from its earliest moments and trace each character's journey through time.

Curious about how the X-Men movie timeline fits within its own universe and the broader MCU? Follow the link for a detailed explanation.

With mutants now integrated into the MCU, revisiting the X-Men's cinematic past is a perfect way to prepare for what's ahead. If you prefer watching in release order, we've included that list as well.

Here's our mostly spoiler-free guide on how to watch the X-Men movies in chronological order!

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The X-Men Movies in (Chronological) Order

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Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?

If you're new to the X-Men movie franchise, starting with "First Class" and watching in chronological order is a great way to dive into the timeline. However, if you want to experience the films as they were originally released to audiences, begin with "X-Men" (2000), where the series officially started.

X-Men Blu-Ray Collection

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X-Men Movies in Chronological Order

1. X-Men: First Class (2011)

"X-Men: First Class" marks the beginning of a new chapter, set at the earliest point in the film franchise's timeline. The story starts in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp and jumps to 1962, focusing on the early days of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, as well as the formation 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" presents a unique challenge for timeline placement, featuring characters from both the original and newer films. The story primarily unfolds in 1973, with scenes also set in an alternate 2023. Its placement here is influenced by specific plot elements, though it can also be watched near the end of this list.

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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Related Guides

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

3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

The first X-Men spinoff, "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," begins in 1845 but primarily takes place in 1979. It explores the origin of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, including how he acquired his iconic adamantium claws and introduces Ryan Reynolds' Wade Wilson/Deadpool.

Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Marvel Studios

Apr 29, 2009

PG-13

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4. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

"X-Men: Apocalypse" features Oscar Isaac as En Sabah Nur/Apocalypse, pitting him against the reboot X-Men team. The film spans from 3600 BC to 1983, showcasing a significant part of the mutant history.

Read our review of X-Men: Apocalypse.

X-Men: Apocalypse

20th Century Fox

May 27, 2016

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