Going out on top

Rating: Null/10 (21 March 2017)

If this is indeed Hugh Jackman's last foray into the X-Men world as the title character Wolverine (which I'm strongly hoping it isn't. There are still many questions/stories after seeing this film), what a way to go out!
As expected, Jackman and Stewart own the characters they've been given guardianship in a gritty, raw, tour de force. The chemistry between the two has always been superb, but the interplay here is next level. Relative new comer to acting Dafne Keen as Laura is a marvel (no pun intended) to behold and more than holds her own on screen with these two veteran actors. Stephen Merchant as Caliban brings his A- game. And Boyd Holbrook's Pierce wastes no time establishing himself as the bad guy you love to hate. An added treat is Eriq La Salle as the very humanizing Will Munson.
The film starts rather unexpectedly with an inappropriately lighthearted and deliciously twisted vignette from a "guest" character. Once the laughs are over, however, $#@! Gets dark and real, real fast. To say that Wolverine has seen better days is an understatement and it looks like his days of reluctant hero are behind him for good. Patrick Stewart's Professor X isn't faring much better either. Due to the actions of one former nurse, both men are tasked with one more stab at heroism. What follows is a two hour dark, violent, graphically violent, action packed, touching, humorous, raw, introspective, emotionally charged, dramatic ride of a life time. An entertaining and compelling family road trip from hell from start to finish.
Don't just take my word for it. Make your own road trip to the theater and see this 10 for yourself.