Just Ignore The Plot And Enjoy

Rating: 5/10 (10 November 2013)

From the other reviewers you likely already know how this movie is *bad*. But for those who care less about plot in a 2-hour superhero movie I can tell you how this movie is *good*.
(1) The acting is good. Hugh Jackman is more convincing than ever as Wolverine - through every posture and expression he shows how a physically immortal hero would age mentally and emotionally. In fact I wonder if Hugh is imparting some of his own struggles with age into this performance - He is 45, and has stated that the physical demands of the role has been more challenging than ever.
The predominantly Japanese supporting cast offer solid performances as well. The two girls in particular did admirable jobs with the scripts they are given especially considering they are models with very limited acting experiences (in Tao's case, none) to begin with. This movie will obviously open up opportunities in Hollywood for them.
(2) The action is good. If you go into this movie expecting to see the typical red-blooded Wolverine slash-and-stab action you will certainly not be disappointed. One of the action scenes especially stands out for me due to its interesting (although hardly original) location which allows for some exciting physics effects. Another scene is set in a garden, a classical action setting for Asian martial arts movies but underutilized in Western productions IMO.
(3) The lead characters look good.
The simple fact is Wolverine would not be so popular if he (as portrayed by Hugh Jackman) does not look like the bulging, sinewy beast that he is. Hugh went on a strict diet/workout routine for six months in preparation for this role and it would be a sin for the audience to not feast their eyes on the fruits of his labor. IMO.
The actress who plays Mariko, Tao Okamoto，cuts a willowy figure of classical Japanese beauty and yet could somehow appeal to the Western aesthetics enough to become the face of Ralph Lauren (as one of the first few Asians to achieve such a distinction). She is, simply put, gorgeous in every way.
So, in conclusion:
If you expect to watch 2 hours of gorgeous people immersing themselves with thorough professionalism into acting out an absurd, almost silly script, with plenty of solid action scenes set in the colorful background of Japan - you will end up smiling and mostly satisfied, like I was. This is a movie to watch, enjoy, and forget all within an evening - not one to be taken too seriously.