By Dan Hagen
“The Wolverine” begins with what
you never see in action movies anymore: quiet menace. A distant plane moves
slowly across a serene landscape. Gradually, you realize this is Nagasaki.
So my least-favorite superhero
turns out to be the protagonist of my favorite superhero film of the summer.
Unlike “Iron Man 3,” which this film
edges out, the movie provides a credible rationale for the protagonist to want
to shed his superhero persona, and an equally credible reason for him to seek
to embrace it again.
Like “X-Men II,” unlike the
dreadful previous Wolverine solo film, “The Wolverine” makes full use of Hugh
Jackman’s considerable charisma. He cracks deadly-wise as satisfyingly as Dirty
Harry did, but embers of Jackman’s warmth and humanity glow through even when he’s
at his most alienated. You can’t help liking this star.
The film has lovingly composed cinematography
of Japanese locales and fine super-action set pieces (particularly one on a
bullet train). And, unlike those boringly frenetic action movies, it takes its
time when it needs to build suspense or romance. This movie isn’t breathless.
It breathes, and that’s a relief.
Stay through the credits, and you’ll
see a couple of old friends.
 |
| Coming attractions |
No comments:
Post a Comment