X-Men: First Class Set to Stream on HBO Max December 1, 2025

The prequel film X-Men: First Class will soon be available for streaming on HBO Max, with its release date set for December 1, 2025. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, this installment serves as a notable addition to the X-Men franchise, which has captivated audiences since the first film’s release in 2000.

Originally hitting theaters on June 3, 2011, X-Men: First Class features a stellar cast, including James McAvoy, Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender, and Nicholas Hoult. The film garnered significant box office success, with a reported budget of $160 million. It opened to approximately $55 million across 3,641 theaters and went on to earn around $146 million in the domestic market. Internationally, the film grossed over $206 million, bringing its worldwide total to approximately $352 million, according to data from Box Office Mojo.

Critical Reception and Themes

Upon its release, X-Men: First Class received favorable reviews, achieving a score of 86 percent on the Tomatometer from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Audience reviews were equally positive, with a score of 87 percent on the Popcornmeter. The film, set in the 1960s, explores the origins of the iconic characters Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr, who are on a quest to find others with similar abilities. However, their differing ideologies ultimately lead them down separate paths.

Despite its success, the film has been subject to criticism regarding character representation. Edi Gathegi, who portrayed Darwin, recently expressed his feelings about his character’s portrayal in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. Gathegi described his experience as “a case of bad representation and missed opportunity.” He noted that there was potential for further development of his character, stating, “I was waiting to be brought back [after First Class] because, as you know, the character doesn’t die.”

Gathegi’s remarks highlight ongoing discussions about representation in film, especially within the superhero genre. His comments reflect a broader sentiment among audiences and critics who seek deeper character exploration and inclusivity in storytelling.

As X-Men: First Class arrives on HBO Max, viewers will have the opportunity to revisit this pivotal chapter in the X-Men saga. The film’s themes of identity, friendship, and conflict continue to resonate, making it a significant part of the franchise’s legacy.

In conclusion, the upcoming release on HBO Max is not just an opportunity to watch a beloved film, but also a chance to engage in conversations about representation and character development in cinema.