Logan shreds superhero stereotypes

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Jude Hedman, Staff Reporter

Logan is a superb spin on the superhero genre, and refreshingly so. Instead of the innumerable movies where the protagonist is some unbeatable, invincible demigod, Logan takes a dramatically different approach, which gives the audience more to take away than just fight scenes and explosions.

As a fair disclaimer, the movie does have an R rating, and deservingly so. The blood, gore and violence is definitely grounds alone for the verdict. Furthermore, there is very mild nudity, a consistent use of strong language, and the overall theme of the story is rather dark, and should therefore be reserved for a mature audience.         

That being said, I would absolutely refuse to watch the movie without any of these elements. Part of the beauty of this series finale is that it feels real. Hugh Jackman plays an old, run down Logan with a multitude of issues, both physical and mental, which constantly plague him as he fights to find a version of himself that he thought had been lost.

The supporting character who coaxes it out of him is that of Laura, played masterfully by Daphne Keen. There honestly couldn’t have been a better person to play the role of this shy, yet incredibly powerful little girl who accompanies Logan as they run from their pursuers. While there is no one predominant antagonist, the organization of bad guys provides an imminent enough threat to drive the plot forward.

Such a strong cast gives the characters life. The relationships formed between them feel true, making it all the more painful when those relationships are torn away. Logan is not afraid to kill off important characters, adding another layer of realism. There is no shortage of action, though. As waves of bad guys attempt to capture the duo, there are plenty of bodies to wreak havoc upon. Action scenes are varied in presentation, setting, and cinematography. This, coupled with a plethora of combat moves, keeps each one interesting.   

Despite the bloody action and grim tone, there are still enough jokes to relieve you from the serious plot. I found myself smirking, or even laughing audibly at them.

After varying twists and turns, Logan concludes boldly.There is no doubt that this superhero movie takes risks in defying the popular definition of a superhero.  Justice is, though admittedly in a more abstract way, served to a satisfying extent. What a greatly bittersweet way to end the Wolverine franchise.          

A movie is only as good as what you are able to take from it. Logan engages its audience and treats them with the maturity that they deserve. I would recommend it to anybody, that they too might enjoy its intense fight scenes and intensely touching scenes alike. There truly is something for everybody.