X-Men is one of the most successful film franchises, after being adapted from the long standing cartoon series, and is released on Blu-ray next week.
This summer we will also see the first spin off as Hugh Jackman reprises the role of X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Here we are at the top five of our search for the best X-Men characters.
5. Storm
Comic book debut: Giant-Size X-Men #1 (May 1975)
Powers: Weather manipulation, flight, energy perception, ecological empathy
Brought to life by Halle Berry’s tempestuous turn in the three recent X-Men films Storm is one of the most ubiquitous X-Men, having appeared in most of the comic books, all of animated television series, nearly all of the video games and the live-action X-Men film series.
Not only does she possess vast powers, Storm was one of the first black comic book characters, and the first black female, to play either a major or supporting role with the big two comic book houses, Marvel and DC.
4. Magneto
Comic book debut: Uncanny X-Men #1 (September 1963)
Powers: Control over electromagnetic spectrum and mind control
While the villain of the movies (courtesy of another turn by a Shakespearean mainstay, Sir Ian McKellen), in the comic universe he surrenders himself to authorities, is acquitted of his crimes, and joins the X-Men proper. Magneto remains the true test to Xavier's Dream; and when he is converted, the professor’s Dream can truly thrive.
3. Professor X
Comic book debut: Uncanny X-Men #1 (September 1963)
Powers: The world's most powerful telepath
Played on screen with great dignity by Shakespearean mainstay and former Star Fleet commander Patrick Stewart, Professor X might have de-powered but without
Xavier, there would be no X-Men and no unified opposition to the nasty Magneto in the film franchise. Ever the true hero, Xavier sees events that challenge his faith in himself. He must, however, keep the Dream alive.
2. Cyclops
Comic book debut: Uncanny X-Men #1 (September 1963)
Powers: High-intensity, continuous optic blast
He may suffer death at the hands of Jean Grey in X-Men: The Last Stand (where he is played by James Marsden), but in the comic book lore he is unsurpassed, eclipsing Xavier to become the greatest X-Man of all.
He’s overcome a fair few problems, too, losing two wives, reuniting with his space pirate father and discovering two lost brothers. The Galahad of the X-Men universe, Cyclops also stands as the embodiment of the student outgrowing the master.
1. Wolverine
Comic book debut: Incredible Hulk #180 (October 1974)
Powers: Healing factor, seriously sharp adamantium claws
Played by a rugged Hugh Jackman in all three X-Men films and the forthcoming Wolverine motion picture, this roguish adventurer is arguably the most popular of all X-Men.
Logan is a natural loner, battling to keep his animal instincts under control, and while his fiery nature sees him tussle with fellow team-members and he regularly goes off wandering to pursue his own missions he is always on hand (and what dangerous hands he has) whenever his companions call.
The X-Men Trilogy Blu-ray Collection will be released on 20 April from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
Wolverine may be number one but take a look at look X-Men characters that didn't make the top five.
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