X-Men: Dark Phoenix is available on Blu-ray, DVD and 4K, so we have a few reasons that you should want to check out the last true X-Men movie about a powerhouse character.
The Fox X-Men franchise has spawned 10 movies (not including Deadpool and New Mutants) over the last 19 years, becoming a six billion dollar franchise and one of Fox’s most profitable properties. There have been two sets within the film series aside from spin-offs, a crossover that merged both, and several comic arcs covered by the films which has earned it a very prominent fanbase. The X-Men films certainly helped the growing superhero trend over the last decade and proved that there can be several successes from an ensemble team of heroes.
With Disney acquiring Fox and every property under their wide umbrella, it was assumed that this would be the final X-film until Marvel/Disney decide to reboot and integrate it with the Marvel cinematic universe. Of course it was lster confirmed that Dark Phoenix is the last installment (New Mutants re-shoots have removed all connections) and now that we’ve witnessed the true conclusion of the beloved series it’s time to celebrate the final chapter. Sure, portions of the film feel rushed or incomplete (Mystique’s send off being one example) but despite the issues fans and critics had with the overall work, there’s no denying that there is still plenty of fun to be had, effects to appreciate or performances to remember for devout X-Men lovers.
Jean Grey remains Queen of the X-Men
In a group like the X-Men, there are endless opportunities for characters to take the lead or become a prominent figure, but in nearly every incarnation of the X-franchise, Jean Grey reigns supreme. Not only has her story been told during X-Men: The Last Stand, but the retelling of events in Days of Future Past allowed for a new depiction of the Dark Phoenix Saga. Jean is one of the most powerful mutants and characters in the Marvel universe, so utilizing that potential to depict her raw power after merging with the Phoenix is a true cinematic experience. No matter how much time passes or however many mutants are introduced, Jean Grey is an X-man unlike any other and we’ll take as much of her as we are given.
Special effects that show the evolution of the franchise
In the last 19 years, there has been no shortage of visual excellence in the X-Men franchise, but the last few films have truly raised the bar with what we are capable of through CGI. The film builds on it’s previous successes such as Quicksilver’s well executed sequences, or the depiction of the Phoenix’s powers in subtle and overt ways. In just a matter of years, they have elevated the franchise’s abilities which has taken down limitations on what could be told or done through the limits of visual effects. The story itself might not be as appreciated as the visuals, but X-Men: Dark Phoenix has embraced it’s ambition and strives to be a visual wonder. Anyone else have that image of Jean merging with the Phoenix Force burned into your memory?
Extras!
Like most home releases, one of the most exciting attributes of the DVD and Blu-ray is the bonus features it includes. For X-Men: Dark Phoenix, there are a total of five deleted scenes that add to the transitional moments or closing scene, something that is always interesting to see what didn’t make the cut and why. Most of these scenes would have worked with the film, so it’s a nice added treat for die hard X-Men fans. There’s the audio commentary with writer/director Simon Kinberg where he sheds light on the intentions of his movie (such as creating a gritty installment to the franchise) and gives more insight on creative choices made for the pivotal X-Men film. For those who enjoy the lighter side of bonus features, there’s a flight short with Beast actor Nicholas Hoult showcasing the spectacular X-Jet as one of the most well known and unique sets from the X-Men films.
X-Men: Dark Phoenix is available now, so check it out for yourself and experience the last chapter of the X-Men in cinematic form!
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