Gaining much of its inspiration from the collaborative efforts of Chris Claremont and Frank Miller from the early 1980’s, The Wolverine starring once again Hugh Jackman opened this past Friday. While of course like many adaptations, some liberties were taken but overall a well paced action film. This is the second film to just focus on the character Wolverine but its not sequel to the 2009 X-Men Origins: Wolverine film. Instead, its a direct continuation of X-Men: The Last Stand from 2006. Confused? Don’t be. Once you have all the films in your possession, it will all make perfect sense. After all, these are all based on comics where continuity isn’t always a priority.
The Wolverine begins after the events of Last Stand. Logan Japan Logan
As far as villains are concerned, we get to see Viper and Silver Samurai. And although the origins have been altered, in particular for Silver Samurai, it works within the structure of the film. I’m sure there will be some who would not be happy with that change but from a big picture standpoint, it’s a forgivable change. This is easily one of the better X-Men related films.
Like so many recent comic book films, The Wolverinedoesn’t necessarily have the feel of such a film and that’s okay. It plays out more like a action/mystery. I thought at times it was very Nolan-esque. Especially some of the scenes in Japan
My hope in tying in all the previous X-Men films together, Marvel is creating a cinematic universe that could someday lead to crossover event with the Avengers. How many of you wouldn’t want to see The Hulk and Wolverine on the same screen? Imagine how a conversation would go between Robert Downey, Jr’s. Tony Stark and Jackman’s Logan? Obviously only time would tell. But don’t think for one moment that Marvel isn’t keeping a careful eye on DC and its Batman/Superman match up slated for 2015.
Everything Marvel has done to this point has turned into box-office gold. They’re not in a hurry to lose that. I want competition between the two because the ultimate winner will be us… the fanboys & fangirls.
Here is your biggest spoiler… stick around for the ending credits. You’ll thank me later.
THE WOLVERINE *** (out of 4)
JPB
The Dork Knight
