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@JamesEpplerThe early reviews of "X-Men: First Class" have been overwhelmingly positive. That means Marvel Studios could be two for two this summer after the enjoyable "Thor" released early last month.
Keep in mind, "Captain America: The First Avenger" releases late July and the trailers look very promising.
Could we get three solid Marvel movies in a row this year? That would be a bit of a change because I haven't thoroughly enjoyed a Marvel movie before "Thor" since 2008's "Iron Man."
Actually, looking over the past several years, I find Marvel has a pretty lousy track record. Some of the best work is now roughly ten years old.
Three Best Marvel Movies1. "Iron Man" (2008)
Robert Downey Jr.'s performance adds a lot to the material, but the character study and snarky dialogue mixed with the rollicking action is still a thrill to behold.
2. "Blade" (1998)
The R-rated violence and scares are great fun. And come on, it has Kris Kristofferson. The first sequel directed by Guillermo del Toro was fun, too, but the third was a disaster.
3. "X-Men" (1999)
This, I think, is the movie that really defined what comic book movies would be for the next decade - at least for Marvel.
I also really enjoyed the more recent incarnation of "The Incredible Hulk" with Edward Norton and the first two "Spider-Man" movies.
Three Worst Marvel Movies1. "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" (2009)
Everything about this movie looked cheap and melodramatic. It's the "Batman & Robin" of the Marvel movies.
2. "Ghost Rider" (2007)
Nicolas Cage has become a liability for most movies, but this one would have been abysmal with
anyone in the lead.
3. "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" (2007)
I didn't think the Fantastic Four could be any less interesting or more ridiculous than they were in the first one. I was wrong.
Side note: I did not watch "Elektra," the Jennifer Garner spinoff of "Daredevil," the latter of which I actually quite enjoyed. I have every confidence it may be the worst Marvel movie ever, judging from snippets I've seen.
What do you think are the best and worst Marvel Studios movies?
