X2: X-Men United (2003)

About X2: X-Men United

X2: X-Men United, also known as X2, is a 2003 American superhero film, sequel to 2000's X-Men. It is the second installment in the X-Men film series. The plot, inspired by the graphic novel God Loves, Man Kills, sees Professor Xavier's mutants unite to stop a military antagonist who views them as a threat to humanity.

Making / Production

Directed by Bryan Singer, the film was released by 20th Century Fox. Production began shortly after X-Men (2000) and reassembled much of the original cast, with the additions of Alan Cumming, Brian Cox, and Kelly Hu. Shot primarily in Canada and New Zealand, the film was praised on release for its action scenes, performances, and thematic depth.

Actors

• Hugh Jackman as Logan / Wolverine: A mutant and a loner, his past is mystery. Jackman perfectly holds the aggressive, yet protective nature of Wolverine.
• Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier / Professor X: The founder of the X-Men, he believes in peaceful co-existence of mutants and humans. Stewart's portrayal emphasizes the character's intelligence and idealism.
• Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr / Magneto: A mutant with control over magnetism, he has radical views on relations between humans and mutants. McKellen's portrayal is menacing, yet nuanced.
• Halle Berry as Ororo Munroe / Storm: A mutant and teacher at Xavier's school. Berry conveys the guarded strength of Storm.
• Alan Cumming as Kurt Wagner / Nightcrawler: A mutant who can teleport. Cumming embodies the humor, yet vulnerability of Nightcrawler.
• Brian Cox as Colonel William Stryker: A military scientist. Cox successfully depicts Stryker as a looming threat.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title 'X2: X-Men United' was chosen to signify the union of humans and mutants in the film.
• Many of the film's stunts were performed by the actors themselves, including Hugh Jackman.
• The movie has a lot of veiled references to other Marvel characters and comic book stories.

Awards

X2: X-Men United was nominated for numerous awards, including the Saturn Awards for Best Science Fiction Film, Best Director (Bryan Singer), and Best Supporting Actor (Ian McKellen).

Quotes

• Logan: "You know, sometimes when you cage the beast, the beast gets angry."
• Magneto: "The war has begun."
• Professor X: "Mutation: it is the key to our evolution."

Music, Soundtrack

• The notable orchestral score of X2 was composed by John Ottman.
• The end credits song, "Adagio and Transfiguration," is a favorite among fans.
• The soundtrack has been praised as one of the key elements in creating the film's atmosphere.