X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

Release Date:

2016

Movie Rating:

PG-13

Runtime:

2h 24m

X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) - Vertical Movie Poster

Synopsis:

In X-Men: Apocalypse, the ancient and powerful mutant Apocalypse awakens after thousands of years, disillusioned with the world he finds. Determined to cleanse humanity and create a new world order, he recruits a team of powerful mutants, including Magneto, to help him in his mission. Meanwhile, Professor Charles Xavier and his team of young X-Men, including Mystique, Beast, and newcomers like Cyclops and Jean Grey, must unite to stop Apocalypse and his followers. As the battle for the future of humanity unfolds, the X-Men face their greatest challenge yet, testing their powers and resolve against an enemy unlike any they have faced before. The film is packed with action and showcases the struggle between the forces of good and evil in a world where mutants are both feared and revered.

IMDb
6.8
Rotten Tomatoes
47.00%
Metacritic
52/100

Where To Watch: X-Men: Apocalypse

Parental Feedback

X-Men: Apocalypse, released in 2016, is a superhero action film that falls under the genres of science fiction and adventure. As a movie rated PG-13, it is primarily intended for teens, offering a mix of thrilling action sequences and complex character dynamics. Parental sentiment is generally positive, with many appreciating the film's engaging plot and special effects, though some express concerns about its intense scenes and mature themes.

Why Teens Should Watch X-Men: Apocalypse

The movie is praised for its exciting action and strong character development.

  • Promotes teamwork and unity among diverse characters.
  • Features a compelling character arc for Magneto, showcasing redemption.
  • Visually stunning with impressive special effects that captivate teens.
  • Explores themes of identity and belonging, resonating with teen audiences.

Why Teens Shouldn’t Watch X-Men: Apocalypse

Some parents are concerned about the film's intense violence and dark themes.

  • Contains scenes of destruction and violence that may be overwhelming.
  • Depicts moral ambiguity and complex ethical dilemmas.
  • Intense visual effects and fast-paced action may be confusing for some viewers.

Verdict: Case-by-Case

Verdict: Case-by-Case
Parents are split, and it largely depends on your teen’s maturity level due to the film's intense action and complex themes.

What Parents Should Know About X-Men: Apocalypse

Question Answer
Does this movie explore topics that require emotional maturity or guidance? Themes of power, responsibility, and redemption are explored through dialogue and character actions.
Does this movie portray risky behaviors that go unchecked or without consequences? Some characters engage in violent acts that are not always critically addressed.
Does the main character show growth or learning across the story? Characters like Magneto and Jean Grey show significant growth, learning to control their powers and make ethical choices.
Are gender roles, relationships, or family dynamics portrayed in thoughtful or outdated ways? Family dynamics are explored, particularly through Magneto's storyline, highlighting themes of loss and reconciliation.
Will this movie prompt important conversations with my teen? The film's exploration of power and responsibility can lead to discussions about ethical decision-making.

The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback

X-Men: Apocalypse is generally well-received for its action-packed sequences and strong character arcs, making it a hit among teen audiences. While some parents appreciate the film's exploration of complex themes, others caution about its intense violence and mature content. Engaging in discussions about the film's themes can enhance the viewing experience, and parents might consider similar superhero films that balance action with positive messages, such as Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Official X-Men: Apocalypse Trailer

The Core Values Learned From X-Men: Apocalypse

X-Men: Apocalypse’s most common core values include Bravery, Teamwork, and Standing up for what's right. Kids and teens can see these values through the characters' efforts to stop the powerful mutant Apocalypse. As the X-Men band together to fight against evil, they learn how important it is to have Courage and work alongside each other. Each character, from Cyclops to Mystique, plays a crucial role, showing that even though they might be different, they contribute to the group's success by facing their fears and striving to protect the world.

Bravery, teamwork, and standing up for what's right shine in a memorable scene where the young X-Men work together to confront Apocalypse and his followers in a showdown. They face great dangers, but they don't give up, showing incredible courage. Cyclops, with his laser beam eyes, and Jean Grey, using her telepathic abilities, join forces to outsmart their enemies. It's a clear example of how using their unique strengths as a team helps them stand up against powerful foes and protect people who can't protect themselves.

Other Core Values Explored: Courage | Leadership | Perseverance | Loyalty | Self-discovery | Inclusion | Respect | Determination | Emotional growth | Protecting nature

The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From X-Men: Apocalypse

Accepting Your Identity: In the movie, key characters like Nightcrawler and Jean Grey grapple with their unique mutant abilities and appearances before eventually embracing who they truly are, teaching viewers the value of self-acceptance.

Believing in Yourself: As the young X-Men face seemingly insurmountable odds against a powerful adversary, they learn to trust in their abilities and instincts, demonstrating how self-belief is crucial in overcoming challenges.

Choosing Right Over Easy: Magneto is faced with a difficult choice of following Apocalypse or standing up for what’s right. His eventual decision highlights the importance of choosing the morally right path, even when it's challenging.

Working as a Team: The X-Men showcase the power of teamwork as each member uses their unique strengths to complement one another, promoting the idea that collaboration leads to greater success than going it alone.

Facing Fears Head-On: Each character must confront their personal fears and weaknesses, particularly Jean Grey who taps into her untapped powers, encapsulating the courage required to address and overcome one's fears.

Other Lessons Learned: Embracing Differences | Finding Courage | Making a Difference | Never Giving Up | Supporting Your Friends

Why Kids Love X-Men: Apocalypse

X-Men: Apocalypse zaps teens into a world where mutants with superpowers face off against epic threats. The movie explodes with fast-paced action as the X-Men, a band of young mutants, use their wild abilities to stop a colossal force of destruction. What grabs teens' attention are the incredible powers of characters like Cyclops, who blasts with laser vision, and Jean Grey, who taps into her powerful telekinetic talents. Portal jumping, futuristic cities, and giant machines promise thrilling scenes that make each moment a spectacle. Teens love seeing these extraordinary abilities come alive, and there's nothing more jaw-dropping than witnessing these heroes in the middle of a pulse-racing battle to save the day.

The experience ventures into epic quests and secret missions, bringing teens on an electrifying ride through extraordinary worlds and battles. The X-Men's journey is all about cool transformations and high-tech vehicles that make every scene an energized buzz of surprises and wonder. Each character wields their unique superpower, lighting up the screen with intense showdowns driven by teamwork and courage. Teens are drawn to the excitement of seeing found families form and unite, and the film's fast-paced sequences add that extra edge of thrill. Superheroes clash and unite, creating a dynamic and adventurous story that's packed with mystery around every corner, making it a must-see for adventure lovers.