Old Man Logan and Hugh Jackman's Portrayal
The Comic Book: Old Man Logan
"Old Man Logan" is an eight-issue story arc in the Wolverine ongoing series, written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Steve McNiven. It debuted with Wolverine #66 in June 2008 and concluded in Giant Size Old Man Logan in September 2009 . The story is set more than fifty years in the future in an alternate universe, Earth-807128, where supervillains have won and taken over the world . Logan, now an older man, lives a pacifist life with his wife Maureen and their children on a plot of land in Sacramento, California, now part of 'Hulkland' .The narrative follows Logan as he is approached by a now-blind Hawkeye to help him travel east to the capital, New Babylon . Throughout their journey, they encounter various remnants of the old superhero world, including a world ruled by supervillains like Kingpin and the President . The story is dark and gritty, combining elements of a post-apocalyptic world with the depth of one of Marvel's most beloved characters .
Hugh Jackman's Portrayal in "Logan"
Hugh Jackman portrayed Wolverine in the X-Men film series, including the portrayal of an older version of the character in the 2017 film "Logan" . Directed by James Mangold, "Logan" is loosely based on the "Old Man Logan" comic book storyline but diverges significantly in its plot and setting . The film is set in a dystopian future where the X-Men have been killed, and mutants are on the verge of extinction . Logan, one of the last remaining mutants, is no longer a superhero and lives a secluded life .The film follows Logan as he is tasked with protecting a young girl named Laura, who is revealed to be his biological daughter, from the sinister Transigen corporation and their enforcers, the Reavers . The movie adopts a Western aesthetic, drawing thematic inspiration from films like "Shane" and "Unforgiven" . Jackman's portrayal of an older, wearier Wolverine was heavily acclaimed, and the film was a box office success, grossing over $619 million worldwide and earning an Academy Award nomination .
Similarities and Differences
While both the comic and the film feature an older Logan who has given up his life as a superhero, the settings and specific plot points differ significantly. The comic is set in a post-apocalyptic world ruled by supervillains, whereas the film is set in a dystopian future with a more grounded, realistic approach . In both versions, Logan is reluctant to fight and has hung up his claws, but circumstances force him back into action .The film "Logan" borrows the visual and thematic elements of the "Old Man Logan" comic but tells a different story, focusing on Logan's relationship with Laura and his struggle to protect her . This thematic borrowing allows the film to stand on its own while paying homage to the source material .
Conclusion
"Old Man Logan" is a beloved comic book storyline that explores a darker, more complex version of Wolverine in a world where heroes have failed. Hugh Jackman's portrayal of this older, more vulnerable Logan in the film "Logan" brought a fitting end to his tenure as Wolverine, capturing the essence of the character while telling a unique and compelling story. Both the comic and the film have left a lasting impact on fans and continue to be celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance.
