Review of Logan (2017) by Chris B — 07 May 2017

The depth and quality of the movie Logan means that there is a lot to write about and recommend here. At its heart, it is actually a story about growing older, and the complex relationships that develop between a caretaker and aging close friend or relative.

This territory is profoundly different from other comic book and action movies, and they pull it off brilliantly. Performances from Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart are outstanding, and have nothing to do with portraying a superhero, but rather the emotional mechanisms (ferocity, comedy, reticence) used to deal with loyalty in the face of frustration, weariness, and tragedy.

That said, there is also a story about Logan bonding with a young girl which is quite touching. Her character is a refreshing new entry into the X-men pantheon. Finally there is a plot driven by the machinations of a morally corrupt biotech-weapons corporation, which is as compelling as one could expect from any top-notch Marvel movie.

The movie has the feel of a western, with great (but violent) action scenes and beautiful cinematography. Even the short car chase scene was uniquely interesting.