You expected something different. A mutant movie leaning into horror, with a distinct tone, almost detached from the rest of the X-Men universe. And in part, it does. The idea is there, the ingredients too: a group of teens with uncontrollable powers, a confined setting made for tension, and a more intimate approach. But it all falls short. It’s not quite horror, nor a solid entry in the mutant universe. What could’ve been something special ends up feeling like a minor, misplaced, aimless story.
What’s most frustrating is the wasted talent. Anya Taylor-Joy and Maisie Williams are fantastic actresses, and here they’re underused in roles that never quite take off. There’s some chemistry among characters, yes, but the film doesn’t dig deep. Relationships are shallow sketches, conflicts barely begin, and just as something’s about to spark, it ends. The script seems afraid to take real risks.
Visually, it's uneven. Some effects land, others don’t. While it's refreshing that it's more restrained and grounded than other entries, at times it feels more like a pilot episode than a proper film. There’s no memorable villain or impactful climax. It’s competent, but forgettable.
The short runtime helps. It doesn’t overstay its welcome, and it holds your interest throughout. A few themes, though barely explored, offer a glimpse of humanity. Not a disaster, but clearly far from its full potential.
Hardcore X-Men fans might be curious. Everyone else will probably move on quickly. It’s frustrating to see what could have been a bold new chapter become a half-hearted experiment.
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