I don't think Brett Ratners threequel to Bryan Singers original two X-men featues is as bad as many people think. Fundamentally its an entertaining, well made movie with a great basic story and some great sequences; both dramatic, humorous and action orientated.
The script has two main threads...the re-appearence of Jean Grey, reborn as the powerful Dark Pheonix and the discovery of a new drug which will 'cure' mutants of their abilities. Both allow opportunity for electric character conflict and the potential to explore themes of psychology, politics and sociology. For the most part, Ratner uses production design and lighting and a serious tone reminisant to the first movies, making it feel very much part of a trilogy. WETA's VFX are magnificent.
BUT, the curse of Ratner can't be entirely discounted. The biggest problem is that these stories, and the familiar and new characters the events affect, aren't given any room to breathe and reach their full potential. So the movie feels dumbed down and the characters short-changed. For example, when Mystique is 'cured' and Magneto abandons her...there's virtually no consequence...what is she feeling? How does Magneto live with that decision? Similarly, key character icon Cyclops is killed by Jean Grey. Unlike many hardcore fans I don't object to characters being exteminated...but if it doesn't affect the others dramatically...whats the point?
Rogue, is also mistreated in a similar way.
The mutants are also dumbed down, with the vast majority being able to leap like frogs from boiling water. The inclusion of porcupine boy (surely the most useless ability anywhere) is puzzeling while the entire concept of Juggernaut, from casting, costume design, to dialogue is apocolyptic in every sense.
Go into this with low expectations or low intelligence...and you'll be contently entertained. If you loved the originals...you might wanna reserve that high regard for soimething else.
