13. Opening War Montage (X-Men Origins: Wolverine)
2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine was intended to kickoff a new series of mutant origin films. Who better to start with than the fan-favorite foul-mouthed Canadian brought to life by Hugh Jackman. On paper it seemed like a sure fire hit, but reality proved different.
The film went on to enjoy modest success at the box office, but the numbers were hindered by the entire movie leaking online weeks prior to its release.
The final nail in the coffin seemed to be word-of-mouth. Critics and fans generally regard it as the worst X-Men movie, and one of the worst superhero movies ever made.
It’s not without its bright spots however. The film opens with an excellent montage that sets the stage for the movie we should’ve gotten.
Wolverine and his brother Sabertooth are the main focus. Director Gavin Hood uses their mutant abilities of healing and immortality to give us a perfect display of their relationship.
We see them fight alongside each other against the backdrop of every major war. The American Civil War, World Wars I & II, and Vietnam are all on display.
Hood brilliantly establishes their individual styles and strengths. Sabertooth is brutal and vicious; Wolverine less so. This paves the way for their differing opinions. By the end of the scene, the film’s central familial conflict is well established.
It may be Wolverine’s weakest solo film, but the opening war montage is a great example of unrealized potential.
