Movie Breakdown: Logan

Pre-Screening Stance:

It’s pretty crazy that Hugh Jackman has been playing Wolverine since 2000.  That’s a nearly 20 year run!  I’m honestly sad to see him call it quits, but at least it seems as though he’ll be going out with a bang via the gnarly looking Logan.

Post-Screening Ramble:

In general, you’re going to find Logan to be the Wolverine movie that you’ve always wanted.  Logan is pissy, worn out (as are his healing powers) and he just can’t seem to get the world to leave him (or his few remaining friends) alone, so he begrudgingly-but-angrily pops his claws and goes to work.  And boy does he really go to work in this film.  Heads fly, limbs fall, gashes are made, bits are kabobbed and more.  It’s graphic, but after waiting so long to watch the guy actually go berserk, it feels more like “FINALLY!” than it does unnecessary.  In fact, don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to cheer and/or gasp with glee every time Logan goes on a rampage.

On the flip side of all that is triumphant about Logan, there’s plenty that’s bittersweet.  It actually for once feels like a legit Wolverine movie and Hugh Jackman turns in his best performance as the character, but knowing that another story is not on the way sure does gives the film a heavy, goodbye forever-feel that steadily lingers.  Also, it’s just a damn struggle watching Professor X (Patrick Stewart in fine, super grumpy form) as an old man with a nearly broken mind.

Logan, without a doubt, is a brutal film, but you’re going to love it.  Think John Wick, but raw with a lot less fucks to give.

One Last Thought:

If some sort of companion comic for Logan were to come out, I’d snatch it up immediately.  There’s a lot in the movie that’s mentioned but not detailed, and some extra backstory would be pretty neat to read through.

One More Last Thought:

I didn’t really note anything about the plot or its side-characters (like Dafne Keen’s ever-compelling and wild Laura, or Boyd Holbrook’s oddly charming but menacing Pierce), and that’s because those elements need to hit you at the actual theater.  Logan isn’t a movie that should be spoiled, just hyped.  See it fresh!