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Dark Phoenix (2019)

2019 • 1h 54m • Adventure, Action • PG-13
On September 24, 2026
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Movie Queen41 on Dark Phoenix

6/10 · Jun 9, 2019

This film isn’t quite as bad as some critics claim, though it definitely ranks among the weaker entries in Fox's X-Men series. Certain sequences, like the initial rescue of astronauts from space and the final confrontation between Magneto, the X-Men, and aliens aboard a train, were genuinely exciting action set pieces. However, the film’s central portion feels noticeably sluggish; it simply doesn't generate much excitement or emotional resonance. Simon Kinberg both wrote and directed this second attempt at telling the Phoenix Saga, seemingly in an effort to compensate for his work on the less-than-stellar *The Last Stand*. Unfortunately, this new installment doesn’t offer a significant upgrade over its predecessor. I am looking forward to seeing Kevin Feige handle the complete Phoenix storyline across three films because trying to fit that story into one movie just isn't feasible. We haven't even had enough time to properly get acquainted with these younger versions of the characters introduced in *Apocalypse*. Jennifer Lawrence’s portrayal of Raven is a low point, coming across as consistently arrogant and disrespectful toward Professor X; I was relieved when her character left the story. It’s clear she has no investment in this franchise. Beast's actions are completely inconsistent with his established personality, as he aligns himself with Magneto to target Jean—something that would be entirely out of character for him. Quicksilver is abruptly sidelined due to an injury sustained by Jean and doesn't reappear until the very end, leaving his relationship with his father unexplored. Scott Summers takes direction from Mystique (which is unpleasant), failing to demonstrate any leadership qualities. The antagonists are generic alien villains whose sole motivation is to exploit the Phoenix Force for global domination; they’re essentially knock-off Skrulls. There are also the predictable continuity problems that plague other X-Men films. *Apocalypse* established Phoenix as an integral part of Jean, mirroring what was shown in *The Last Stand*. Now we're told that the Phoenix exists independently of Jean and originates from beyond our planet. Furthermore, considering how Professor X and Jean’s stories conclude here, it seems improbable they would both be present at the end of *Days of Future Past* to welcome Logan at the school. Ultimately, this film is disappointing—and a fitting moment for Disney to relaunch the franchise.

Source on TMDB