Wolverine (2013)
By Keeva Stratton
The Wolverine opens by taking us back to JapaPart filmed in Sydney, Australian audiences will be keen to check out Hugh Jackman in his latest adventure as the hirsute hero from Marvel comics, Wolverine.
The Wolverine opens by taking us back to Japan at the bombing of Nagasaki where the supernatural talents of Logan (aka Wolverine) are revealed to a young local soldier when his life is saved by the mutant.
Years later, the soldier, now elderly and the head of a leading technology firm, summons his former saviour to Japan, where he promises to bestow Logan with one final gift. When Logan visits the old man, Logan discovers that it’s the man’s granddaughter who could now do with his protection, and he soon finds himself caught up in a family battle of epic proportions.
As with all X-men spin-offs, the character-driven (and focussed) plot allows us to learn more about Wolverine, in terms of exploring his past and his future. This, the second film to feature Jackman’s portrayal of a Marvel character, who has always been a fan favourite, is much better than its underwhelming predecessor and is successful in revealing yet another layer of Wolverine’s story.
Set in Japan, the action is inspired by more traditional samurai films (with a generous dose of kung fu action mixed in). It effortlessly combines fast cuts with beautiful scenery and exotic backdrops. Jackman appears to have a lot of fun, and the supporting cast serve him well.
The Wolverine introduces us to some interesting new characters, while expanding our knowledge of those with whom we’ve become familiar. It’s fun, fast and full of genre quirks set to delight and indulge comic book fans.
And as with all good superhero adventures, it’s worth seeing out the credits, where we are teased by more to come.
Directed by: James Mangold
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Rila Fukushima, Will Yun Lee
Rating: M
Runtime: 126mins
Release Date: 26 July
Reviewer rating: 3/5
You might also like: