More than a Comic book film

Rating: 10/10 (4 March 2017)

Before seeing this movie I saw a Quote from a critic along the lines of "not just a great comic book movie, But a great movie in general". I think that may be the best way of to sum up Logan.
To start this movie isn't for your typical comic fans, this is more for fans that enjoy movies as an art. The story is deep, dark, gritty and emotional with not a ton of humour. I for one have no issues with this as I see The Logan character as this is how one of his films should be made. I am not familiar with the source material, however I have always enjoyed the X-Men movies for what they are, big budget blockbusters. The biggest problem with the movies for me have always been how they have failed to feel any type of emotion for the characters, until this film.
This is a story of a hero who has lost his way and only cares for very few people, if not only one. A hero who is struggling with the past and is ready to live out his life in peace and alone. Obviously things happen to make him question things and also possibly guide him back on the right path. I have to say it's the first time in any comic book movie where I generally felt emotionally attached to multiple characters and would truly be sad if any of them were to be harmed or worse, die. After all these years with so many movies of this genre it's crazy to think it took this long, but it was worth the wait.
Hugh and Patrick really do their best work with the characters they have played for 17 years. They both have moments in the film that almost brought me to tears and also made me really think about life and how you can always improve regardless of your age. Dafne Keen is also very good. She is so convincing in a role that had to be hard for an 11 year old to play. Her first scene is absolutely impressive. The villain is fine but nothing to go bonkers about. He's charming and weirdly likable but never a true threat. To me the true villain is the demons from the past, and how to overcome them.
The action is raw and gritty just like the film. It's so brutal it could be hard for some to watch, however I wanted to just jump in to the screen and fight along with them (again, a first for an XMen film). If you are looking for huge set pieces and big special effects you will be disappointed. Think more Jason Bourne style of fighting with claws.
All in all this is a fantastic movie. I know it's early in the year, however this could end up being my favourite movie of the year. It's so raw and honest with great action sequences and a true character study of how great Men have to deal with their own demons. If you don't go in expecting an action movie and have an open mind I think anyone could truly enjoy this film.