A Tribute to a Cinematic Masterpiece: A Review of Logan

For film enthusiasts and comic book fans alike, Logan stands as a significant cinematic achievement. This review delves into why this 2017 film, starring Hugh Jackman, not only lives up to the high standards set by classics like The Dark Knight but also stands as a threshold of its own era in superhero cinema.

The Dark Knight and Logan: Bookends of Comic Book Films

Two movies that must be considered as the bookends of comic book films are The Dark Knight and Logan. These films not only draw heavily from their source materials but also honor them while infusing their own unique elements. While other comic book films came before, The Dark Knight marked a milestone. It demonstrated that comic book movies can indeed be genuine works of cinematic art, leading to an explosion of such films. Conversely, Logan marked the conclusion of this genre, with a final cinematic masterwork that captured the essence of characters like Wolverine and the X-Men, marking the end of an era for fans who grew up with these stories.

Why Logan: My All-Time Favorite Movie

As someone who has developed a deep affection for the film, Logan holds a special place in my heart. Reflecting on the reasons I find it so compelling, it's clear that the movie's core themes and exceptional storytelling make it a standout in the superhero genre.

Highlights of Logan

Wolverine and Hugh Jackman's Performance
One can hardly speak of Logan without discussing Hugh Jackman's portrayal of Wolverine. His performance is nothing short of exceptional, with every scene featuring his character leaving an indelible mark. The portrayal of Wolverine as a character who has lost everything but continues to persevere is particularly poignant. My favorite moment was the scene where Logan dies while holding X-23's hand, a testament to the emotional depth of Jackman's performance and the film's storytelling.

X-23 and Dafne Keen
The introduction of X-23, played by Dafne Keen, adds a significant layer to the narrative. As a character deeply rooted in the film's themes of family and loss, X-23 stands out. Her performance is exceptional, managing to hold her own against the more experienced Hugh Jackman. Additionally, her chemistry with Patrick Stewart, who plays Professor X, is fascinating to observe.

Action Sequences
The fight scenes in Logan are not merely spectacle; they are a marvel of storytelling and action. The opening fight sequence, in particular, is dripping with intensity and realism, making it one of the most memorable action scenes of the year. The absence of overreliance on CGI and the brutal, satisfying nature of Wolverine's movements through the film are noteworthy.

Conclusion: Logan as a Masterpiece

Ultimately, Logan transcends its genre to become a profound and meaningful cinematic achievement. It sends a powerful message about dysfunctional family dynamics and the importance of hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable adversity. Contrasted with the more corporate and superficial MCU movies, Logan's heart and emotion make it far more resounding and impactful. It's a film that continues to resonate with audiences long after it was released, making it an absolute masterpiece in the realm of superhero cinema.

While some argue that The Dark Knight is better, many others consider Logan to be on par or even surpassing it. Personally, I give Logan a score of 10/10, and it holds a special place in my heart as one of the greatest movies of all time.