“Nature made me a freak, man made me a weapon, and God made it last too long.”

– Logan (portrayed by Hugh Jackman)

In the past 17 years, Hugh Jackman has starred as Wolverine in nine different movies, including an uncredited cameo in 2011’s “X-Men: First Class.”

“Logan” is the final installment in a series of films that focus specifically on the Wolverine character. Not only is “Logan” a fulfilling conclusion, it is no doubt one of the greatest comic-book movies of all time.

The success of “Deadpool” taught Fox Studios that there is a market for R-rated comic book movies. Fans enjoy the dichotomy between comic-book films that push the envelope and films that appeal to all ages. The R rating allows “Logan” to stand out as unique among the other comic book-based films.

Director James Mangold delivers fast-paced action and raises the ante on violence. These action sequences are filled with gore and carnage that exemplifies the Wolverine. The pace of this film is strong as it mixes this violence with compelling and emotional storytelling.

The screenplay behind “Logan” will delight comic-book purists. Essentially, Logan is a chase film that focuses on only a few characters. This simple story allows “Logan” to truly capture the Wolverine’s sadness, violence and regret.

Patrick Stewart delivers as Charles Xavier, as does newcomer Boyd Holbrook as the villain Donald Pierce. The biggest surprise is the young actress Dafne Keen in the role of Laura (X-23).

Jackman deserves much praise for his nuanced and emotionally-charged performance as the titular character.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars