He’s the best in what he does. And what he does isn’t very nice. Thanks to Wolverine gaining popularity as a fan favorite since “Giant-Size X-Men,” English comic book writer, Chris Claremont wrote four issue solo mini-series on my all-time favorite Marvel superhero. Published in September-December 1982, (same year New Mutants made their debut) Wolverine’s first volume earned praise from critics, fans and readers alike. Wolverine earned a second volume spanning from 1988-2003. His most recent solo series is an eighth volume linked to an ongoing storyline, ” From the Ashes” involving prominent characters since 2024. I haven’t read any new comics.
Anyway, in 2026, some of the OG from the X-Men movies will appear in “Avengers: Doomsday.” It’ll be released in December 18. As I wait for my favorite superhero team coming back on the big screen, I wanna share my opinion on Wolverine’s first solo storyline. One more thing, Insomniac Games is developing a video game on Wolverine.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’ll give newcomers a chance to try out this four issue mini-series.
Sharp & Rusty Aspects
Sharp: Chris Claremont did a fantastic job writing all four issues.
Say what you will about his controversial tropes and views, Frank Miller’s art in Wolverine’s limited series is really good. Wolverine’s inner monologue, cinematic panels and a touch of film noir were later used in Frank’s highly acclaimed neo-noir series, “Sin City.”
Fun Fact: Hugh Jackman recreated the first issue’s iconic cover on a YouTube ambient video. Skip the 8 hour plus video. Google, “Hugh Jackman Wolverine Cover.” You’ll thank me later.
- Random Thought 1: Every I read Wolverine’s dialogue and inner thoughts, I hear Hugh Jackman’s voice in my head.
- Random Thought 2 Prior to reading Wolverine Vol. 1, I only watched “The Wolverine.” I read all four issues on Marvel Unlimited. You can tell James Mangold borrowed a few elements.
The fight scenes presented in panels must’ve inspired Genndy Tartakovsky to animate Samurai Jack’s action sequences using split screens and framing panels mimicking a comic book brought to life. Ang Lee’s “Hulk” didn’t work out as it was intended to look like a living breathing comic book. I guess Mr. Tartakovsky was influenced by Frank Miller early work before controversy tarnished the latter’s image.
Character Development fleshes out Wolverine. He’s conflicted on his animalistic nature and attempting to tame his inner beast by adapting a code of honor much like a samurai.
Wolverine’s old flame, Mariko plays a key role. A ninja named, Yukio also factors in. We learn about thier lives.
Primary Themes are Morality, Animal Instinct, Honor, Humanity, Existence & Love. Each one’s handled carefully.
In issue #3, ninjas shoot Wolverine with arrows. A reference to a scene from Akira Kurosawa’s “Throne of Blood.” A samurai themed adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” The arrow scene was later referenced in Wolverine’s solo second film from 2013.
Rusty: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Chris & Frank an Extra Point for making a flawless limited series as possible. I gotta give ’em credit for inspiring Samurai Jack.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
A quintessential solo four issue limited series made Wolverine a Bonafide badass. Four Years Later, Frank Miller made Batman a Bonafide badass in “The Dark Knight Returns.” If you’re looking for something to read, Wolverine’s limited series is a must-buy for pure X-Men fans. Either purchase a physical copy on hardcover/paperback or download the app, Mavel Unlimited. Whatever suits ya.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 