One of the most interesting characters of the X-Men, the Wolverine tries to hide from his world-saving past, but part of the world he saved in his past finds him.

Hugh Jackman embraces his animal character with clenched fists, he's easy to like and root for. The film is stark and edgy, and takes place, for the most part, in Japan. Coincidentally, I screened the film with my niece who had just come back from studying Japanese in Japan. She was impressed with the authenticity of language and casting.

The twisting plot probably takes a few twists too many, but it does serve well to keep the viewer intrigued. The character interactions are strong, while some of the action quite tense and mighty. That said, the writers had us cracking up along the way as well.

It's an easy film to enjoy on the surface, but misses the opportunity to craft a potent character arc. There's a lot going on in the Wolverine's head, much of which is displayed nicely in dreams that weave artfully in and out of the action. However, the final resolution to his internal struggle is more of a simple toggle, than slow powerful build. Still, a good time at the cinema.

-- Books by Ross Anthony, Author/Illustrator --