Home News X-Men Movies: How to Watch in Chronological Order

X-Men Movies: How to Watch in Chronological Order

Author : Dylan Apr 17,2025

The X-Men franchise, beloved for its comic origins, has carved out a significant place in cinematic history with iconic performances from actors like Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. These films are renowned for their complex timelines, featuring origin stories, retcons, and time travel that add layers of intrigue. Depending on your chosen viewing order, the impact of certain plot points and character arcs can vary dramatically.

For those looking to dive into the X-Men narrative from its earliest moments, we've arranged the 14 films into a roughly chronological timeline. This approach allows you to follow the characters' journeys from their beginnings to their latest adventures.

If you're curious about how the X-Men movie timeline fits into the larger universe, including its relation to the MCU, you can find detailed explanations by following the provided link.

With mutants now part of the MCU, revisiting the X-Men films is a great way to prepare for future developments while celebrating the franchise's rich history. Below, you'll find the option to watch the films in their release order as well.

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

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How to watch 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, you might want to start with "X-Men: First Class" to follow the timeline chronologically. Alternatively, to experience the films as they were originally released, begin with "X-Men" (2000), the film that launched 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" kicks off a new chapter, taking us back to the earliest point in the franchise's timeline. The film opens in 1944 at the Auschwitz concentration camp and then jumps to 1962, exploring the origins 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

Where to Watch

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

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" presents a challenge for timeline placement, as it spans both the original and newer X-Men films. While much of the story unfolds in 1973, significant scenes occur in an alternate 2023. Its placement in the timeline can vary, but its connection to the original cast adds to its appeal. It can also be placed near the end of the list if preferred.

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

X-Men: Days of Future Past Marvel Studios May 23, 2014

Where to Watch

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3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

The first X-Men spinoff, "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," starts in 1845 but focuses on events in 1979, delving into the origin of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. It also introduces Ryan Reynolds' Wade Wilson/Deadpool, making it a key piece of the Wolverine timeline.

Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine Marvel Studios Apr 29, 2009 PG-13

Where to Watch

4. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

"X-Men: Apocalypse" features Oscar Isaac as En Sabah Nur/Apocalypse, opposing the rebooted X-Men team. The film spans from 3600 BC to 1983, providing a broad historical backdrop to the story.

Read our review of X-Men: Apocalypse.

X-Men: Apocalypse 20th Century Fox May 27, 2016