X2

THE FLICK: Let’s sit back and marvel for a moment at the accomplishments of director Bryan Singer and the creative team behind “X-Men” and “X2.” Not only did they turn in a faithful adaptation of comicdom’s most beloved team of misunderstood mutant superheroes, but they made the often soap-operatic storyline accessible to anyone and everyone who was lucky enough to buy a ticket. And while the first film served as an excellent introduction to the mutant menace, “X2” is an improvement in almost every respect. More action. More characters. More depth. And more visual razzle dazzle - the only element that was lacking in Singer’s first go round with Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) and the gang. “X2” takes the idea of mutant prejudice to the next level by introducing the character of Stryker (Brian Cox), a right-wing military man with a grudge to bear against Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and his school for gifted youngsters. His plan for global mutant genocide forces the X-Men into action, teaming up with supervillain Magneto (Ian McKellan) and a new blue-skinned recruit named Nightcrawler (Alan Cumming). As noted often on the DVD extras, the first “X” film was not much more than a teaser designed to set the stage for adventures to come. And here is where all of Singer’s hard-earned character development pays off. Wolverine’s quest for identity, the Cyclops/Jean Grey love triangle; “X2” delivers a well-plotted payoff along with double the action of the first film. Every character is showcased but not showy and reacts with genuine emotions. Calling it one of the best comic book movies ever is shortchanging Singer’s well-rounded mature filmmaking. THE FEATURES: Internet rumors were buzzing about the previous “X-Men 1.5” DVD, which was supposed to be a re-cut of the film including excised scenes and new footage. Long story short, it didn’t happen...but it was still a kick-butt disc. “X2” seems like a response to fans that complain about studios double dipping; that is, releasing multiple versions of a popular release with new extras. What Fox has released here is a jam-packed special edition that quietly takes on nearly every aspect of production, editing, music, and effects you could ask for. Let the tour begin! Disc One contains two separate commentary tracks: Singer and cinematographer Newton Thomas Sigel and another featuring the producing and writing team. Both are worthwhile; even the writer’s track, usually a guaranteed bore on most discs, makes mention of excised scenes and mutants cut in the pre-production process. But Singer and Sigel are dead-on when it comes to breaking down the filmmaking process, and their conversation is likely the best listen. Disc Two begins with “The Secret Origins of X-Men,” a fast-paced tell-all with Marvel-ites Stan Lee and Chris Claremont who run through the pen and ink beginnings to James Cameron’s aborted film adaptation. “Nightcrawler Reborn,” hosted by “X”-writer Chuck Austen, provides glimpses of the comic prequel and insight into the comic writing process. “Nightcrawler Attack” is a multi-angle animatic breakdown of the opening White House sequence. “Evolution in the Details” concentrates on the production design, visits the sets (including a closer look at the mutant museum exhibits) and key locations. “United Colors of X2” wraps up pre-production with costume designer Louise Mingebach who points out details like the foreshadowing phoenix jewelry worn by Jean Grey. On to the actual production itself with “Making of X2.” Jumpy and disconnected, this is the fluffiest of the featurettes, but delivers a fair share of “X” goodies including stunt breakdowns and Singer’s “same but different” approach to planning the sequel. The “Wolverine/Deathstrike Fight Rehearsal” is a quick-cut montage set to a techno beat. There are a host segments reserved for the new addition to the cast, Nightcrawler, including a “Stunt Rehearsal,” “Make-Up Time Lapse,” and “Introduction” which shows actor Alan Cumming working with a movement coach to create a look for the character. Post-production kicks off with “FX2,” an in-depth look over the computer animator’s shoulders as they attempt to redeem themselves for the sub-par effects in the first film. Each set-piece scene is discussed, including the X-Jet dogfight, Nightcrawler’s “Bamf” effect, and the dam bursting finale. Composer John Ottmann gets his chance to talk the talk on “The Score of X2,” while excerpts from the “X2 Global Webcast” edits together amusing comments from the cast and crew in a Charlie Rose-type setting. Finally, an art gallery collects designs and sketches used in the film...and even those that weren’t, like the mutant hunting Sentinels. But, wait, you say, what about deleted scenes? They’re here, but they’re nothing spectacular. The best of the bunch is a small moment with secondary character Jubilee as she wanders the mutant museum exhibit. But there are six or seven others if you’re interested. FINAL SCORE: If you made it through that laundry list of extras, you should have a good idea just how stuffed to the bits the “X2” DVD is. And awesome as some of this stuff is, it pales in comparison to the movie itself. Whatever voodoo Singer and company have lets hope they keep it going through “X3,” which the director confirms is already on its way!