Review of The Wolverine (2013) by Paul J — 21 May 2014

This is the Wolverine movie I had been waiting for. Instead of giving us wall-to-wall action, this give us plenty of quiet character moments. It also pays beautiful tribute to Frank Miller's original comic series by having the story take place in Japan.

James Mangold brings plenty of humanity and a strong focus on relationships. But when the action comes, it doesn't disappoint. It was a very smart move to have Wolverine lose his powers. Let this be a lesson to all future super-hero films, focus on the characters and let the action evolve out of their conflicts.

There are countless images taken straight out of Wolverine's pantheon of iconic comic book moments. And thankfully Jackman plays the role to perfection. The samurai sword through his chest moment sums up our super-hero expertly.

Wolverine is honorable and knows that this skilled samurai defeated him, so he lets him walk away. Yet, unfortunately, his opponent's ego gets the better of him. Nonetheless, it's this silhouetted image that best sums up the entire film and hero.

The extended cut is more gruesome with a slightly grittier tone.