‘Logan’ continues R-rated hero trend

By Melynda Lewis

If you’re wondering whether “Logan” is like any of the other Wolverine films, let me assure you, it’s not. “Logan,” the newest addition to the “X-Men” franchise, received an R-rating for graphic violence and language, pushing it above other superhero films and following what seems to be a new trend with “Deadpool” also being rated R last year.

This film is one of the many sequels of the “X-Men” films such as “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” released in 2009, and “The Wolverine,” released in 2013. “Logan,” directed by James Mangold and produced by 20th Century Fox, focuses on the adventures of Wolverine, played by Hugh Jackman, Professor X, played by Patrick Stewart, Caliban, played by Stephen Merchant and Laura, played by Dafne Keen. It follows Wolverine as he aides Professor X, who is wanted by police. Together, they live near the borders of Mexico where they’re hiding because, as is true with all “X-Men” films, mutants are not wanted. This is interrupted, however, by the arrival of a young mutant named Laura, who causes trouble for the duo. Despite the unwanted attention, Wolverine protects Laura after finding out that she is his daughter, leading to a cross-country road trip for her safety.

Much like the other films in this franchise, the mutants serve as a metaphor for those who are deemed unwanted in society. While tracing the origins of Wolverine, the film still achieves the portrayal and hardships of those that don’t fit into society’s standards.

Unlike other Wolverine films, however, this movie received an R-rating because of how blood-drenched it really is. This film is not for children or the faint-hearted, and viewers should be prepared for graphic head slicing and strong language throughout. Despite this, the film displays mind-blowing action scenes that bring viewers to the edges of their seats. Surprisingly, the star of the film is not Wolverine — it’s Laura, who possesses the same traits as Wolverine with claws coming from her hands, but her character is that of a much more ruthless person, especially for a young girl. Her character is simply stronger than that of Wolverine, and Keen does an incredible job in the portrayal of this role.

The film took several risks such as graphic violence, but those risks seemed to pay off. Even after accepting the R-rating, which condenses the film’s audience, it still managed to deliver. Jackman and Stewart adapted fantastically to their roles despite their visible aging, and new additions to the crew, Merchant and Keen, did the same. With a cast this strong and a script as clean as this one, it’s no wonder “Logan” exceeds expectation.