In a word, "X-men: First Class" was good. Erik and Charles really stole the show and they were a pleasure to watch on screen. There was some really good chemistry between these two characters and their actions personified their views concerning the existence and continued emergence of the mutant situation. They were truly good friends and seeing them work together in a common interest reminded the viewer that they aren't just mutants, they are humans, trying to fit in and contribute to society with their gifts. In the same token, both held different ideals which led them ultimately to the path that we all know they would choose to be on different sides.
Unfortunately, their "First Class" of mutants or students wasn't the best class they could assemble and were easily forgettable, yet Erik and Charles did their best with what they had to overcome the crisis at hand while still operating their own agendas. As teachers, they let their students grow by making mistakes, learning from them, and making their own decisions in life. Also, like any good teacher or parent, they hoped that their students would might the best moral decision, yet sometimes they wanted them to make the decision that best served them.
Overall, the viewer is treated with a very good back story and development of two very different characters that are Erik and Charles. They really shined while the minor characters didn't shine as bright. I give this movie 3.5 out of 5 stars.