Writer: Yap Yew Jin

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Watch this if you liked: "X-Men", "X-Men 2"

Decisions. That is what most of the characters in the movie had to face. Whose side are you on? Not an easy question to answer considering the consequences and bearings the choices might make.

"X-Men: The Last Stand" builds on the massive success of "X-Men 2", and combining it with one of the X-Men's most exciting and challenging storyline yet - a cure for mutancy - was a recipe for success for Brett Ratner, who took over from previous director Bryan Singer who opted to direct "Superman Returns" instead.

This latest in the series benefits from a simpler storyline compared to its predecessors. With less strain on the brain, the audience is free to marvel at all that's on display in one of Marvel's most popular adaptation (pun intended). Unlike Singer who focuses too much on the drama aspect in the previous films, Ratner gets it right by coming up with action-packed scenes that literally take your breath away.

Special effects are in abundance in the movie, which was apparent right at the start with the de-aging of Professor Charles Xavier and Magneto by 20 years. Other notable scenes made spectacular by CGI include the showdown between Pyro and Iceman (which should have been longer), the fate of the Golden Gate Bridge and practically every scene involving Phoenix, Jean Grey's alter ego.

All of your favourite mutants are back for the ride in this one as well as some fresh new faces. However, besides Kelsey Grammer's Beast, none of them were developed well (can't blame Ratner though, it's not easy fitting so many mutants' life stories into less than two hours). And as far as the new faces coming in, the old ones had to go and tragically too (won't spoil it by mentioning who).

Hugh Jackman once again stole the show with his performance as the rebellious Wolverine. Halle Berry, who plays a much bigger role as Storm in this film, certainly gave a better performance compared to those in the previous ones. Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellen as usual outshone each other as the respective leaders in the divided factions of mutants. Finally, Rebecca Romijn looks as hot as ever as the mysterious and elusive Mystique. One question remains. When will Gambit finally make it into the big screen?

The movie may feel a bit short at around an hour and 40 minutes but rest assured, after getting past the main credits, the film takes you on an exhilarating ride at top speed with no rest in between. Just keep an eye out for a cameo appearance by Stan Lee in the opening scenes and a surprise twist right at the end after the credits roll.

Cinema Online, 23 September 2008