Wolverine by Claremont & Miller [Hardcover]

I ordered this trade collection after watching the exciting "The Wolverine" film trailer and learning that this is an important source material.

This collection collects Wolverine #1-4 & Uncanny X-men 172-173

Two renowned comic book masters Chris Claremont and Frank Miller team-up to create an excellent and influential Wolverine story. I was very much in favor of the more humanized Wolverine approach and admire the Batman: Year One feel; where Wolverine is depicted as a lone samurai, a "Ronin" lost in his wanderlust. Wolverine is learning through hardships, combats, heartbreaks... it almost feels like a "Year One" story for him. I LOVE IT! I love origin stories!

I read the introduction by Claremont at the beginning of this trade. I had great comfort hearing that Claremont and Miller had strong interests in writing and illustrating a more human characterization of Wolverine. He pointed out it might have been a radical direction to take at the time, because Wolverine was predominantly perceived as a Berserker; but it was his time to have a refreshing new interpretation (new material) that inspire readers and creators (artists & writers) alike!

I also really enjoyed how the story takes place mainly in Japan, it certainly gives a more unique and authentic feel to this adventure. It's a little more surreal and thrilling being away from home.

Quick blurb about the story:
Wolverine travels to Japan to find his lost love, but only to encounter deadly ninja assassins known as "The Hand". This Wolverine tale is cunning, exciting, rewarding, filled with awesome action and romance! (yes you heard me right!).

I'm glad I picked this one up!
If you are interested in reading an exciting and important story about Wolverine that's full of intrigue I highly recommend this title!

Looking forward to seeing the movie!

Crofty

What an outstanding Wolverine story, Claremont truley understands the mythos of the Wolverine and that is why he was one of the best writers every to protray this intense mutant. I only wish Hollywood understood him as well as Claremont did! This is a must read for any Wolverine fans. Its a perfect story!

But what else could it be with two of the greatest comic book professionals ever teaming up to add much needed dimension to a character that was at the time a little flat. The fact that this story idea was created and plotted as Claremont and Miller were driving back from the San Diego comic book convention probably helped fuel some of the angst that the poured into revamping Logan's character.

This story cements Wolverine as a Ronin, a Samurai without a master, and shows him one of his greatest loves, the tragic Mariko Yashida, who is still one of my favorites out of Logan's vast bevy of beauties.

Whether you're a long time Wolverine/X-Men reader and somehow managed to skip over this one, or a fan of the movies and looking for a place to start, I highly recommend this graphic novel.

Just a note, if you are just beginning, please check out the Essential Wolverine volumes 1-3. For the money you get a lot a great reading and even more insight into this enigmatic mutant.