Logan (2017), directed by James Mangold, is a gritty and emotionally powerful conclusion to Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men franchise. Set in a near-future dystopia, the film delivers a grounded, violent, and deeply personal story about aging, sacrifice, and redemption. Featuring Patrick Stewart as an ailing Charles Xavier and Dafne Keen as Laura/X-23, Logan stands out as one of the most mature and impactful superhero films ever made.
Introduction: A Dying Hero in a Dystopian Future
The year is 2029, and mutants are nearly extinct. Logan (Wolverine) is now an aging, weakened version of himself, his healing factor slowing down and his body failing.
- Logan works as a limo driver in Texas, trying to live in secrecy.
- He takes care of Professor Charles Xavier, who is suffering from a degenerative brain disease that causes devastating psychic seizures.
- They are hiding in Mexico, along with Caliban, a mutant who helps Logan care for Charles.
Logan is bitter, disillusioned, and drinks heavily to cope with his fading abilities and the tragic past of the X-Men.
The Mysterious Young Girl: Laura (X-23)
One day, Logan is approached by Gabriela, a woman who pleads with him to escort a young girl, Laura, to a safe haven called Eden in North Dakota.
- Gabriela claims that Laura is being hunted by a shady organization called Transigen.
- Laura, it turns out, is a clone of Logan, created in a lab using his DNA.
- She possesses adamantium claws, enhanced reflexes, and healing abilities—just like Wolverine.
Logan initially refuses, but when Gabriela is murdered and Transigen’s agents, known as the Reavers, come after Laura, he is forced to protect her.
Escape and Charles’ Last Mission
The Reavers, led by Donald Pierce, attack Logan’s hideout. However, Laura reveals her own ferocity, brutally killing the attackers using her claws and superhuman agility.
- Logan, Laura, and Charles escape, heading toward Eden, a rumored mutant sanctuary.
- Along the way, Charles tries to convince Logan that Laura is his daughter, but Logan refuses to acknowledge the bond.
- They take shelter with a kind farming family, the Munsons, for a night of peace, but tragedy follows.
Charles Xavier’s Death: A Heartbreaking Loss
During the night, they are attacked—not by the Reavers, but by X-24, a younger, fully feral clone of Logan created by Transigen.
- X-24 kills Charles in his bed, stabbing him in a heartbreaking moment.
- Logan, devastated, buries Charles in the wilderness but has no time to grieve.
Laura, now seeing Logan as a father figure, stays by his side despite his reluctance.
Reaching Eden: The Final Battle
Logan and Laura eventually reach Eden, where they find other young mutant children who were also created and experimented on by Transigen.
- The children plan to escape across the border, but the Reavers track them down.
- A final brutal showdown ensues, with Logan taking a mutant-enhancing serum for one last fight.
- Logan, despite his weakened body, fights fiercely but is ultimately overpowered by X-24.
In an emotional climax, Laura kills X-24 using an adamantium bullet, saving Logan.
Logan’s Death: A Hero’s Farewell
Mortally wounded, Logan shares a final moment with Laura.
- She calls him “Daddy”, showing her deep bond with him.
- Logan, finally at peace, tells her “So this is what it feels like”, hinting that he is feeling love and family for the first time.
- He dies in Laura’s arms, ending his long and painful journey.
Laura and the other children bury Logan and place an “X” over his grave, honoring him as the last of the X-Men.
Conclusion: A Poignant End to Wolverine’s Story
Logan is a masterpiece of storytelling, blending intense action with raw emotion. The film delivers a heartbreaking yet fitting farewell to Wolverine, showing that even the toughest warrior can find redemption, love, and peace in his final moments.
With its brutal realism, deep character development, and powerful themes, Logan is widely regarded as one of the greatest superhero films of all time.
“Nature made me a freak. Man made me a weapon. And God made it last too long.”
This quote reflects Logan’s struggle with his identity and the burden of his prolonged life. It highlights the interplay between nature, human intervention, and divine will, posing questions about purpose and the consequences of immortality.
“Someone will come along.”
This simple but powerful line, spoken by Charles Xavier, conveys hope and faith in humanity. It suggests that even in the darkest times, there’s always a potential for redemption and assistance from others.
“You still have time.”
Charles Xavier’s reminder to Logan underscores the theme of redemption and change. It implies that no matter how far gone someone might feel, there is always an opportunity to make things right and find peace.
“Don’t be what they made you.”
Laura’s plea to Logan encapsulates the struggle against being defined by others’ expectations. It encourages personal agency and the pursuit of one’s own identity, despite external pressures.
“Bad things happen to people I care about.”
Logan’s admission here speaks to his fear of vulnerability and the pain associated with loss. It highlights the internal conflict between isolation for self-preservation and the innate desire for connection.
“This is what life looks like: people who love each other. You should take a moment.”
Charles Xavier’s quote is a poignant reminder to appreciate the simple, yet profound aspects of life, such as love and companionship, which are often overshadowed by chaos and conflict.
“We’ve got ourselves an X-Men fan.”
This line humorously acknowledges the meta-nature of the film while also emphasizing the impact of legends and stories on shaping identity and inspiring hope.
“Charles, the world is not the same as it was.”
Logan’s statement reflects the theme of a changing world and the struggle to adapt to new realities. It speaks to the loss of old values and the challenge of finding one’s place in a transformed society.
“Everyone you care about dies.”
This bleak observation underscores Logan’s internal battle with loss and his resulting emotional scars. It questions the value of attachment in a world marked by impermanence and suffering.
“She’s your daughter, Logan.”
This revelation about Laura challenges Logan to confront his past and accept responsibility. It highlights the theme of legacy and the potential for renewal through familial bonds.
“I don’t want to fight you.”
Logan’s reluctance to engage in conflict speaks to his exhaustion and desire for peace. It reflects a shift from aggression to a more introspective approach to resolving issues.
“A man has to be what he is, Joey. Can’t break the mold.”
This quote references the movie “Shane,” drawing parallels between Logan’s journey and the classic Western hero’s struggle with identity and destiny.
“Charles, the sun is setting.”
Logan’s metaphorical statement alludes to the end of an era, signaling both Xavier’s impending death and the conclusion of Logan’s own journey. It’s a somber reflection on mortality and closure.
“It’s not about what you deserve, it’s about what you believe.”
This line challenges the notion of entitlement and emphasizes personal belief and conviction as guiding principles for actions and life choices.
“I was a cage fighter in El Paso.”
Logan’s reference to his past life symbolizes his struggle with violence and the internal conflict between his nature and his desire for change.
“This is your path.”
Acknowledging Laura’s journey, this quote emphasizes the importance of forging one’s own path and making independent choices, free from the shadows of predecessors.
“I have to keep you safe.”
Logan’s sense of duty and protection towards Laura reflects the theme of guardianship and the transformative power of responsibility and care for others.
“Don’t hurt anyone.”
This simple instruction from Laura to Logan signifies a shift towards compassion and restraint, highlighting the impact of empathy in breaking cycles of violence.
“There’s no living with a killing. There’s no going back from it.”
This line, borrowed again from “Shane,” emphasizes the irreversible nature of violence and its lasting psychological impact, resonating deeply with Logan’s experiences.
“So this is what it feels like.”
Logan’s final words express the unfamiliarity and acceptance of peace and closure, encapsulating his journey towards redemption and the end of his suffering.
The Film’s Title
The movie is simply titled “Logan” as a nod to the film’s focus on the character’s humanity rather than his superhero persona, Wolverine.
Influence of Westerns
Director James Mangold was heavily inspired by classic Westerns, particularly “Shane” (1953) and “Unforgiven” (1992), which influenced the film’s tone and style.
R-Rated Release
“Logan” was the first film in the Wolverine series to receive an R-rating, allowing for more intense action and mature themes than previous installments.
Patrick Stewart’s Weight Loss
Patrick Stewart lost about 21 pounds to portray an ailing Professor Xavier, making him appear frail and highlighting his character’s vulnerability.
Hugh Jackman’s Reduced Pay
Hugh Jackman took a pay cut to ensure the film could be produced with an R-rating, prioritizing artistic integrity over financial gain.
Dafne Keen’s Audition
Dafne Keen, who played Laura/X-23, impressed the filmmakers by improvising scenes with Hugh Jackman during her audition, showcasing her acting prowess.
Minimal CGI
The filmmakers opted for practical effects and makeup over CGI to create a more realistic and gritty feel, particularly in the depiction of violence.
Johnny Cash’s Influence
The movie’s trailer, featuring Johnny Cash’s cover of “Hurt,” set the tone for the film’s somber and introspective mood, resonating with audiences and critics alike.
Symbolic Ending
The cross at Logan’s grave is turned on its side to form an “X,” symbolizing his legacy and connection to the X-Men.
Comic Book References
The inclusion of X-Men comic books within the film serves as a meta-narrative device, blurring the lines between fiction and reality for the characters.