With the release of X-Men: Apocalypse in theaters, it's now time to refresh yourself on the universe by streaming each of the films in the X-Men franchise!

X-Men: Apocalypse has officially premiered in theaters everywhere, but you may need to do a little homework before seeing the massive blockbuster. As these movie franchises continue to crank out new movies, it's not always easy to remember character relationships, plot developments and other elements that may enhance your enjoyment of the film.

As such, let's explore the movies (and one TV show) you may want to watch before seeing X-Men: Apocalypse.

X-Men: First Class (2011)

Often classified as a "soft reboot" of the X-Men film franchise, X-Men: First Class offers a great introduction to the storylines present in the modern era. The film centers on the always-complicated relationship between Professor Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and the origins of the X-Men. You can rent X-Men: First Class for $2.99 on iTunes, Google Play, YouTube and PlayStation.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

Then there's X-Men: Days of Future Past, a sequel to First Class and the most recent film released before Apocalypse. This film takes place in two different eras, with Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) going back in time in an effort to help affect the future for the better. Like with First Class, you can rent Days of Future Past on iTunes, Google Play, YouTube and PlayStation.

X-Men (2000)

While First Class and Days of Future Past are the only essential films you'll want to watch before Apocalypse, it wouldn't hurt to check out the earlier films in the franchise as well. X-Men is the one that started it all, centering on the conflict between the X-Men, led by Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and the Brotherhood of Mutants, led by Magneto (Ian McKellen), with each having a different take on integrating mutants into society. X-Men is available to rent in all the same places addressed above.

X2: X-Men United (2003)

The X-Men and what's left of the Brotherhood team up in X2 to protect themselves against a colonel hellbent on destroying all mutants. X2 is widely regarded as one of the best film's in the franchise, particularly for its societal parallels and gripping human drama. X2 is only available to rent on iTunes at this time.

X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

X-Men: The Last Stand was the last proper X-Men film for a while, centering on a new mutant cure being developed, as Jean Grey (Famke Janssen) gave in to her darker, alternate personality as the Phoenix. You can rent X-Men: The Last Stand on iTunes, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and PlayStation.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) and The Wolverine (2013)

Both X-Men Origins: Wolverine and The Wolverine center on the most popular character in the franchise, Wolverine. The films feature the fan favorite character coming to terms with his mutant abilities. These films are the least essential to your understanding of Apocalypse considering how little the character factors into the proceedings, but are still worthwhile for a deep dive into the franchise. Rent X-Men Origins: Wolverine here or The Wolverine here.

X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)

For those who just can't get enough of X-Men, the '90s animated series is perfect. The series features just about every X-Men mutant every invented and then some, and features many storylines that influenced the live action movies. The entire series is available on Hulu Plus.

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X-Men, Movies