Marvel has made a significant change to the character of Wolverine, now canonically depicted as standing at an impressive height of 8 feet. This alteration comes as part of the new series, The Last Wolverine #1, created by Saladin Ahmed and illustrated by Edgar Salazar, which introduces a new character named Leonard, a Wendigo who has adopted the Wolverine identity.
In a surprising twist, Leonard takes on the mantle of Wolverine following the corruption of the original character, Logan. This shift occurs within the context of the Age of Revelation event, set ten years into the future of the Marvel Universe. During this time, Logan has been brainwashed by the villainous entity known as Revelation, becoming his chief assassin. Leonard, reminiscent of his mentor but physically his opposite, stands at a towering height and possesses similar powers, including razor-sharp claws and a formidable healing factor.
Leonard’s cheerful demeanor contrasts sharply with Logan’s traditionally brooding character. This new iteration of Wolverine is portrayed as a heroic figure who inspires joy among children, who greet him with cheers when he arrives to help. The juxtaposition of an 8-foot tall Wolverine against Logan’s established height of 5 feet 3 inches offers a fresh take on the character, highlighting the diverse potential of the Wolverine legacy.
Wolverine’s Legacy and the Shift in Canon
The narrative of The Last Wolverine explores Leonard’s journey as he attempts to uphold the heroic values associated with the Wolverine name. By taking on this role, he hopes to keep the spirit of his predecessor alive while battling the corruption that has overtaken Logan. The series hints at a potential redemption arc for Logan, as his wife, Vindicator, arrives with a plan to restore his mind, allowing Leonard the opportunity to save the man who once saved him from his Wendigo curse.
The inclusion of Leonard as the new Wolverine adds an intriguing layer to the character’s legacy. It also raises questions about the future direction of the series, particularly whether Logan will eventually reclaim the title or if Leonard will continue to embody the heroic attributes of the Wolverine identity.
The Importance of Wolverine’s Physicality
Wolverine’s original height has always been a crucial aspect of his character, symbolizing the underdog who faces overwhelming odds. His stature reflects the name of the animal he is named after—a short but fierce creature that will confront any opponent, regardless of size. This characteristic was emphasized in Logan’s early appearances, notably as a formidable opponent of the Incredible Hulk, and has shaped his identity within the Marvel Universe.
Despite the established canon, many adaptations, including Hugh Jackman’s portrayal in the X-Men films, have not adhered to Wolverine’s original height. While Jackman’s performance is widely celebrated, the discrepancy highlights a departure from the character’s roots. As Marvel prepares to reintroduce the X-Men into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, there is hope that they will consider casting a shorter actor to align more closely with the character’s original depiction.
In summary, Marvel’s decision to introduce an 8-foot tall Wolverine through Leonard offers a unique interpretation of the character while preserving the essence of what it means to be a Wolverine. This narrative twist not only revitalizes the franchise but also reinforces the idea that heroism can take many forms, transcending physical attributes to embody ideals of courage and resilience.