Solid movie, and Rila Fukushima is the best thing about it

Rating: 7/10 (26 July 2013)

This is a pretty solid adaptation of the classic 1982 Chris Claremont/Frank Miller comic miniseries that told Wolverine's first solo adventure outside of the X-Men books. At times James Mangold's direction feels uneven, and even drags in certain places. But overall it's an enjoyable ride.
The best thing about the film, aside from Hugh Jackman's usual solid turn, is newcomer Rila Fukushima as the swordswoman Yukio. From what I've read, this is her first movie after a career as a fashion model. She's definitely got great screen presence, and she also has a really unique look. Look for her to give Rinko Kikuchi a run for her money as Hollywood's go-to "Japanese female" actress.
The worst thing about the film is that it follows in the Hollywood tradition of all the pretty Asian ladies being threatened and oppressed by all the evil Asian men around them...until the brave, noble, handsome white guy comes to save the day while making all those pretty Asian ladies swoon. *Sigh* It's 2013!!! Yeah, I know. I myself pointed out that the movie is an adaptation of a story from the early 80's. It wouldn't be so bad if pretty much EVERY Hollywood film set in Asia didn't follow that same tired supremacist formula. And this movie doesn't exist in a vacuum.
Still, for what it's worth, "The Wolverine" is an entertaining film. Compared to all the other summer movie offerings this year (2013), it's worth your money. If anything, see it for Rila Fukushima. She's great, and she's going to be a star.