The X-Men franchise, renowned in the world of comics, has also captured the hearts of fans through its cinematic adaptations. Iconic portrayals by actors like Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine have solidified these films as beloved entries in superhero cinema. Known for their complex timelines that weave together origin stories, retcons, and time travel, the X-Men movies offer multiple ways to enjoy the narrative, each affecting the impact of key plot reveals and character developments.

While it's tempting to watch these films in the order of their release, we've curated a list that aligns them into a cohesive chronological timeline. This approach lets you follow the X-Men saga from its inception, tracing each character's journey from the earliest moments.

If you're curious about how the X-Men movie timeline fits within the universe of the films and its connection to the MCU, follow the link to delve deeper into this intricate web of stories.

With mutants now part of the MCU, revisiting the past through these films is a great way to prepare for future developments. For those who prefer to watch in the order of release, we've included that list as well.

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

Jump to:

How to watch in chronological orderHow to watch by release order

The X-Men Movies in (Chronological) Order

14 Images

Which X-Men Movie Should You Watch First?

If you're new to the X-Men movie franchise, you can start with "X-Men: First Class" to follow the timeline chronologically. Alternatively, if you want to experience the films as they were originally released, begin with "X-Men" (2000), which marks the official start of 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, setting the earliest point on the franchise's timeline. The film starts in 1944 at Auschwitz and jumps to 1962, exploring the origins of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, as well as the beginnings of both the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.

Read our review of X-Men: First Class.

X-Men: First Class20th Century FoxJun 3, 2011

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyBuyMore

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

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" presents a unique challenge in timeline placement, featuring characters from both the original and newer films. The story spans 1973 and an alternate 2023. Its placement here is justified by certain plot elements, and fans of the original cast will find it particularly rewarding. It could also be viewed near the end of this list.

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

X-Men: Days of Future PastMarvel StudiosMay 23, 2014

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyRent/BuyMore

Related GuidesOverviewPlotCast and CharactersBryan Singer on Twitter

3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

The first standalone film in the X-Men series, "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," begins in 1845 but primarily unfolds in 1979. It delves into the origin of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, including how he obtained his adamantium claws, and introduces Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson/Deadpool.

Read our review of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

X-Men Origins: WolverineMarvel StudiosApr 29, 2009PG-13

Where to Watch

Powered byRent/BuyRent/BuyRent/BuyMore