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The best choice made by the folks behind “The Wolverine” was isolating their eponymous X-Man (Hugh Jackman) from his popular comic-book cohorts. In plucking the clawed, feral mutant from the world of Storm, Cyclops, et al (even “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” featured classic baddies Sabretooth and Deadpool), this new film, set after the events of “X-Men: The Last Stand,” plays, for the most part, like a gritty character study, even proving demure in its analysis of Wolverine’s moral and existential woes.
Which is certainly not to say “The Wolverine” is without action. Directed by James Mangold, the Marvel flick kicks into high gear once it migrates from an American wilderness, where Wolverine has been living in the woods, to Tokyo, where Yashida (Hal Yamanouchi), a dying man the immortal Wolverine rescued in WWII, requests the presence of his savior in hopes of acquiring his healing powers. Knowing Wolverine is plagued by the guilt of killing a manic Jean Grey (Famke Janssen) for the greater good, Yashida thinks the brute warrior would gladly relinquish eternity. But, of course, there’s more to the story.
And there’s surely more to be seen. The Japan setting proves an invaluable part of the movie’s appeal, providing an exotic locale that’s both novel and befitting for Wolverine. And the epic fights therein are terrific to behold, particularly a frantic battle at a high-society funeral, and an unforgettable scuffle atop a speeding bullet train that will make you gawk at its awesomeness while giggling at its absurdity.
Of course, this brand-name summer tentpole ultimately sticks too close to the rulebook, concluding with a strata of deceptions, a speech from the bad guy, a sacrifice or two and a standoff with an implausibly large supervillain. But there’s plenty to enjoy before and beyond these conventional bits, including the physical dedication of all involved. Japanese actors Hiroyuki Sanada and Rila Fukushima make for expert sword-wielders, and Jackman’s consummate devotion to this character will make every viewer feel lazy. The musclebound star looks as fit and beastly as ever. In true X-Men form, it’s uncanny.
The Wolverine
PG-13
Two-and-a-half reels out of four
Now playing in area theaters
Recommended Rental
To the Wonder
R
Available Tuesday
It’s easy to understand why certain viewers can’t warm to Terrence Malick’s filmmaking, particularly in his later career, which sees his work grow more elliptical and interpretational than ever. But even if you find yourself unmoved by “To the Wonder,” Malick’s love-triangle, “Tree of Life” follow-up starring Ben Affleck, Olga Kurylenko and Rachel McAdams, it’s still the fluidly handsome work of a master, who’s driving interest has become the search of life’s meaning through art.
Contact the South Philly Review at editor@southphillyreview.com.
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