The Art of 'X-Men 2

by Timothy Shaner

Illustrated with over 300 stills and drawings, including the complete screenplay, the only book on the making of the spectacular X-Men 2 and the X-Men film franchise. Outcasts from society, the X-Men are genetic mutants, born with superhuman powers, who harness their special abilities for the greater good. But the human race they fight to protect rejects and fears—even hates—them. Initially realized in the Marvel Comic Book adventures, the first X-Men major feature film was released by Fox in 2000, directed by Bryan Singer, who had previously directed Apt Pupil and The Usual Suspects . Its stunning success—theatrically grossing nearly $300 million worldwide, and becoming a video and DVD phenomenon—signaled the current wave of comics to film adaptations and guaranteed the sequel, which reunites the principal cast members and the original's key creative team, including director Bryan Singer, cinematographer Newton Thomas Sigel, and production designer Guy Dyas. The new X2 will feature several surprises, including favorite mutant characters from the vast X-Men comics universe, who are new to the film franchise. 300 color illustrations.

Genres: X Men, Nonfiction

160 pages, Hardcover

First published June 27, 2003

Reviews

[Tori]

So I actually have the deluxe version of this book (I didn't realize there was a distinction!) I loved it. It was such a trip down memory lane! The X-men movies are so dear to my heart, and for years it bothered me there were no "art of" books for them (unlike certain other superhero franchises.) However, I was mistaken, and happily so! I loved seeing how things changed from concept to screen, be it set design, uniform or even storyboards! Oh and the script! How fun! There were a couple of scenes I wish made it into the film but even so, it was pretty accurate. There was a brief look into the first X-men film as well, which was also fun! I definitely have to rewatch X2 now, maybe all the movies. I miss them and I'm damn sure I always will.

[Eva]

Pretty much as awesome as a movie-companion can be!