X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Hugh Jackman reprises the role that made him a superstar – as the fierce fighting machine who possesses amazing healing powers, retractable claws and a primal fury.  Leading up to the events of X-Men, X-Men Origins: Wolverine tells the story of Wolverine’s epically violent and romantic past, his complex relationship with Victor Creed (Liev Schreiber), and the ominous Weapon X program. Along the way, Wolverine encounters many mutants, both familiar and new, including surprise appearances by several legends of the X-Men universe whose appearances in the film series have long been anticipated. Ryan Reynolds plays Deadpool, Lynn Collins as Silverfox and Taylor Kitsch plays Gambit.

In this prequel, which focuses on the most interesting of the X-folk (a kind of a cross between a spaghetti western vintage Clint Eastwood and Michael Landon’s teenage werewolf), we get lots of back history, lots of attitude and a whole lot of action.  Trouble is, the history isn’t all that compelling, the constant angst is a bummer, and the special effects-laden action isn’t so spectacular.  Too many fight scenes between the lead good guy and the lead bad guy become a bore.  There’s also not much mystery. 

The filmmakers wanted to make this the best in the series.  It just doesn’t play out that way.  The scriptwriters are the main guilty party.  Once again, someone in charge of studio blockbusters assumes that if the film is busy enough and loud enough, we mere ticket-buying mortals won’t pay attention to the illogical premise. And maybe they’re right.  

The film is rated P-13. There is some crude language (four or five obscenities) and several minor expletives. Also, at least six profane uses of God’s name. And the filmmakers take full advantage of Mr. Jackman’s buffed up body, showing him from behind in the nude as well as a partial nude frontal long shot, not to mention several shots of the actor shirtless. The film is definitely intended for older teens or adults.

For a more detailed review, check out the free website, Previewonline.org, where Phil Boatwright reviews films from a Christian perspective.