X2 (2003)

Thomas calls X2 a truly great genre sequel that improves on its predecessor. He especially praises Singer’s confident action direction and the way the ensemble’s powers and storylines are handled.

King finds X2 better than its predecessor and praises it as exciting, clever entertainment with heart and soul. She singles out the energized performances and the two-disc edition’s extensive extras.

Collins says the sequel builds on the original and delivers an exemplary, relentless comic-book action spectacle. He particularly praises the breathtaking opening assault on the White House.

The review finds X2 bigger, bolder and better than its predecessor, coming close to meeting exceptionally high expectations. It praises the greater emotional depth, especially the exploration of Wolverine’s past and relationships.

Ebert finds the film entertaining and engaging as a superhero story. He particularly praises its interesting characters.

Phipps finds the sequel bigger but generally better, praising how Singer balances melodrama with action and humor. He singles out the gifted cast, especially Ian McKellen, while noting that the finale’s effects begin to overwhelm the story and characters.

The review is positive, describing the sequel as energetic and rich in ideas. It singles out its momentum and abundance of ideas for praise.

Mackie gives the film a favorable review, highlighting its gravitas and varied cast. He especially praises Alan Cumming’s addition as Nightcrawler and the franchise’s anti-prejudice themes.

McCarthy finds the sequel substantially improved and expects it to perform strongly, though its extended climax and simplistic themes weaken the result. He praises the standout action and effects sequences, especially Mystique and Nightcrawler’s kinetic moments.

The accessible page identifies this as Mike Goodridge’s review, but its verdict is hidden behind the paywall. No specific praise or complaint is visible in the available text.

The URL identifies a review of X2, but the blocked page provides no review text. The critic’s verdict and any specific praise or complaint cannot be verified.

Lane finds X2 tangled and overblown, with its tolerance message pushed too insistently. He praises Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, especially the character’s understated humor.

Kipp argues that the film fails in nearly every respect, despite its bleakly funny subversiveness. He praises Ian McKellen’s Magneto for delivering his dialogue with comic flair.

Scott Wold gives X2 an enthusiastic verdict, calling it an awesome ensemble action movie that rocks. He singles out the opening sequence, the returning cast, and Alan Cumming and Brian Cox’s performances for praise.

Kermode finds the sequel uneven but ultimately worthwhile, with a sharper, more satisfying plot as it progresses. She singles out Alan Cumming’s Nightcrawler for restoring the film’s emotional and political force.