X- MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE (REVIEW)
Set
in a time previous to the earlier 'X-Men' films, the hairy mutant with the retractable
talons returns to the fold - the unforgettable 'Wolverine'.
This
is his origins, a back-story of his sordid, violent and extremely romantic past.
We are also introduced to his complex relationship with one Victor Creed and how
Wolverine, also known as Logan, became involved in the weapon-X program. This
is an event that turns siblings into bitter rivals.
Victor
has a back-story too, a half brother to Logan with a fierce genesis against him.
He is also known as Sabretooth, a mutant with bloodlust and a bad attitude. During
the fast paced film, Wolverine encounters many other mutants along his way to
find out more of what's behind his rage.
There are surprise
appearances by several legends within the X-Men universe that aficionados have
long been anticipating on the big screen. These include Gambit and Deadpool. The
problem is they are crammed together in a flurry of circumstances as the film's
second half goes awry.
Each 'X-Men' movie has strayed further
from the original source and comic book enthusiasts will go through the plot twists
with much emotion. But this is a character study with the finger on the accelerate
button. The action sequences are nothing short of spectacular. We also learn where
our anti hero came from and what motivates him as he battles an animalistic rage.
Hugh Jackman is again very convincing, very fit, and makes
Wolverine his own. Besides the fighting, Logan does exert a more human side trying
to live a reasoned life amongst humans. "Some of them will be spared, some
of them will die" could easily be his motto.
Liev Schreiber
as Sabretooth is also a perfect choice as Logan's doppelganger, while a wisecracking
Ryan Reynolds as fan favourite Deadpool, looks like he's stepped straight out
of his previous Marvel comic role in 'Blade;Trinity'.
Filmed
mostly in Australia, there's plenty of familiar Aussie talent in small roles including
Peter O'Brien and Tahyna Tozzi. An X-Men film without Storm was disappointing
- Halle Berry would have been a welcome sight amongst the testosterone.
'Wolverine'
has brilliant production values and effects. Good entertainment but nothing memorable.
Shane
A. Bassett
