The “X-Men” movie franchise has had its surefire ups and downs. Bryan Singer (“The Usual Suspects”) directed the first two films in the series, which were absolutely phenomenal. The second film, “X2,” might arguably be even better than the first, which is usually not the case in the land of sequels – especially in superhero films.
The franchise ended with Singer’s departure from the director’s chair, which was filled with “Rush Hour” Director Brett Ratner. “X-Men: The Last Stand” wasn’t a terrible movie. At the time of its release, it was met with disappointment from critics, as it just wasn’t up to par with the first two in the series. Still, after movies like “Ghost Rider,” “Spider-Man 3” and “Punisher: War Zone,” the third “X-Men” movie didn’t seem that bad.
After Ratner’s attempt at closing out the series, the public soon learned of plans requiring Hugh Jackman to reprise his role as the popular X-Man, Wolverine. The end result is a film that tries hard to capture the spirit and success of the previous films, but instead comes across as a film trying to please the fanboys. Unfortunately, it doesn’t even do that.
“X-Men Origins: Wolverine” focuses on the enigmatic background of Wolverine, which includes his involvement in the Weapon X program – the reason why he’s got those shiny, metal claws that shoot out of his hands and that bad attitude. The thing about Wolverine is that he’s got an interesting story to make a film about, but everyone who has seen the first two films, especially “X2,” knows everything they need to. “X-Men Origins” struggles too hard to flesh out the details not fully explained in earlier movies: Wolverine’s participation in every battle from the Civil War to Vietnam (Wow! He’s really old!), his growing feud with mutant brother Sabertooth (Liev Schreiber), and a somewhat tragic love story.
The film works in some parts, is a little boring in others but ultimately is a decent action flick. Schreiber’s performance as Sabertooth is miles above the character portrayed in the first “X-Men” film. Schreiber adds a lot of depth to the character, making him what he’s really supposed to be: Wolverine’s greatest adversary. Jackman’s performance is also on par with what he’s done in the past with the famed superhero. Fans of the character won’t be disappointed, unless they are looking for something more than what Jackman has already demonstrated as Wolverine.
Action sequences are fun to watch, especially when fights come down to special effects showing off mutant powers. There are plenty of those, too, with a bevy of mutants including Taylor Kitsch as Gambit, will.i.am as John Wraith, and Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool. As an avid fan of NBC’s “Friday Night Lights,” all I can say is this film needed more Kitsch.
Fans have wanted to see Gambit on the silver screen for some time, and Kitsch, who’s casting was initially met with disdain by fans, fills the Cajun mutant’s shoes to perfection. Still, it feels like his character was almost forced into the film, a sure product of mediocre screenwriting. Throwing in a bunch of characters from the series, such as a young Cyclops, was inevitable, but lacked proper execution.
Reynolds’ performance as wisecracking Wade Wilson (who in Marvel lore becomes the mercenary Deadpool) is far better than expectations, proving that the actor can do more than sappy romantic comedies. Again, however, the character seemed tossed in to please those familiar with him. He’s not developed enough, and neither is any other mutant apart from Wolverine and Sabertooth.
All in all, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” is a good popcorn flick. It’s got plenty of action, good special effects and will fulfill the basic needs of fans of the series. Unfortunately, the storyline is a little weak, feels rushed and is rather predictable. Another installment in the “Origins” series is sure to be in the works shortly, (if it isn’t already) as “Wolverine” has already grossed over $80 million in its first weekend. Regardless of what character it will be based around, they’ve got my nine bucks.
