Top 10 Awesome Facts about Logan

This “X-Men” film primarily draws inspiration from “Wolverine: Old Man Logan” by writer Mark Millar and artist Steve McNiven. This eight-issue storyline centers on a weary Wolverine in a post-apocalyptic world. Likewise, Wolverine’s age will catch up to him in “Logan.” Taking place in a bleak near future, our broken-down hero is forced to come out of hiding as a new wave of mutants rises into power. Granted, this won’t be a shot-for-shot adaptation of “Old Man Logan,” as 20th Century Fox doesn’t have the rights to the Hulk, Hawkeye, or Red Skull. The parallels are certainly there, however, and hopefully the source material’s poignant themes will shine through in this film.

Where the previous two “Wolverine” movies could get pretty over-the-top, this final installment will be aiming for a more “human” feel, according to director James Mangold. The filmmakers want to tap into Wolverine’s vulnerable side, revealing that there’s more to this character than an unstoppable badass. To achieve this effect, they decided to cut back on the CGI and green screens. In an interview with Empire, Hugh Jackman described the film as “the story of a man who is struggling with mortality and legacy, and whether the world has been better off with him or without him." By putting more emphasis on character development and less on CGI action, “Logan” could be the Wolverine movie fans have been waiting for.

Director James Mangold previously helmed 2013’s “The Wolverine,” making “Logan” his second “X-Men” feature. Outside of this franchise, Mangold is perhaps best know for directing the Johnny Cash biopic, “Walk the Line.” In the trailer for “Logan,” Johnny Cash’s version of “Hurt” can notably be heard. Aside from being a cool reference to the director’s previous work, this song perfectly sums up the footage represented in the trailer. Touching base on themes of sorrow, isolation, and redemption, “Hurt” epitomizes the emotional turmoil Wolverine will experience throughout the film.

Patrick Stewart made his debut as Charles Xavier over a decade and a half ago in the first “X-Men” movie. Over the years, Professor X has acted as Logan’s friend and mentor. For some reason, though, he hasn’t had a significant role in any of the Wolverine spinoffs. Sure, he had uncredited cameos in “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” and “The Wolverine,” but neither of those films delved into his relationship with Logan. This film marks Stewart’s first major role in a “Wolverine” movie. Older and frailer, Xavier will struggle to control his powers while also dealing with memory loss. Acting as Xavier’s caregiver, Logan is forced to confront the inevitability of aging and change.

While we’re on the subject of Patrick Stewart, it’s also worth mentioning that this will reportedly be his final performance as Charles Xavier. During a chat with ITV, Stewart stated, “I would imagine this is probably the end of this franchise for me.” Of course Stewart also said, “the thing about science fiction and fantasy is that you can never, ever say it's the end, it's over." After all, Xavier got disintegrated in “X-Men: The Last Stand” and still managed to live another day. But don’t worry, we still have James McAvoy, right? We’re pretty sure that’s legit, these multiple timelines are so confusing.

For “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” Hugh Jackman was reportedly paid $20,000,000. He received the same amount to reprise his role in “The Wolverine.” For “Logan,” however, Jackman agreed to take a pay cut. Director James Mangold broke this news during a 40-minute screening of “Logan”, reportedly saying that Jackman accepted a smaller salary to secure the movie’s R-rating. It’s unknown exactly how much money Jackman walked away from, but “Logan” is currently budgeted at $127 million. Since it has a lower price tag than some other “X-Men” films, there’s less risk involved for the studio, although its now been established that R rated superhero movie can still be a financial success, F-Bombs and all.

In “Logan,” Swazi-English actor Richard E. Grant will star as a villainous mad scientist named Zander Rice. Grant might not be a household name, although “Game of Thrones” fans likely know him best for playing the traveling Braavosi performer Izembaro. Grant is actually the fourth “Game of Thrones” actor to appear in the “X-Men” movies. Ed Skrein, who had a reoccurring role throughout the show’s third season, starred as Ajax in “Deadpool.” Sophie Turner, who broke out into stardom as Sansa Stark, played a young Jean Grey in “X-Men: Apocalypse.” Peter Dinklage, who masterfully brought Tyrion Lannister to life, portrayed Bolivar Trask in “X-Men: Days of Future Past.” Does this mean that “Logan” could have a Red Wedding?

“Logan” has been cited as the third “Wolverine” movie, but it’s really more of a reboot than a sequel. Both “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” and “The Wolverine” were set in this franchise’s original timeline. After the events of “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” though, an alternate timeline was created. “Logan” is part of this new continuity, which also includes “Deadpool” and “X-Men: Apocalypse.” Speaking of which, the post-credits scene in “Apocalypse” might’ve hinted at what’s to come in “Logan.” Although this may be the end of an era, it can also be seen as a new beginning.

As mentioned before, movie studios are usually reluctant to throw big bucks at R-rated productions. Since younger audiences can’t get into restricted movies without adult supervision, studios prefer to play it safe with a PG-13 rating. R-rated blockbusters are making a comeback, however, and that’s arguably thanks to “Deadpool.” This “X-Men” spinoff was a box office sensation, grossing over $700 million for just under $60 million. Many assumed that the success of “Deadpool” influenced 20th Century Fox to go for an R-rating with “Logan.” According to producer Simon Kinberg, though, the third “Wolverine” film was always going to be rated R. In any case, it’s probably safe to say that “Deadpool” further encouraged Fox to stand by this decision.

“Logan” will not only be Hugh Jackman’s ninth appearance as Wolverine, but also his last. Jackman has decided to retire from this iconic role for a variety of reasons. For starters, the Australian actor is turning fifty in a couple years. Jackman has also been treated for skin cancer on multiple occasions recently. Believe it or not, Jerry Seinfeld even played a role in this decision, indirectly influencing Jackman to go out on a high note. Jackman certainly had a phenomenal run, playing this character over the course of 17 years. Hopefully he’ll get a fitting sendoff and pass on his claws to a worthy successor. Or perhaps retire the character indefinitely?