The creators promised a different Marvel movie and to some degree they delivered. That particularly goes for the first half, which allows its characters to breathe and has the action happen as result of the plot and not just because it's about time during certain points in a superhero film.
The film can rely on excellent support performances, especially on the female side. And it can rely on an actor who has made this character his own over the course of no less than 13 years. Whether Hugh Jackman just raises an eyebrow or grumbles a great one-liner, this is his show at any time.
Still, the first act of the film is a lot more serious and calm than you'd expect, only interrupted by an outstanding action sequence on a train.
The showdown falls more into the category of things you've seen before in a Marvel adaptation and therefore falls a bit short (while making a few decisions the comic experts might frown upon), but is still pretty exciting. The result is a highly entertaining film that benefits from its very special locations and atmosphere, the actors' chemistry, but not necessarily from the superhero stereotypes, that even feel out of place at times. However, additionally to the mentioned action sequence, the post-credits scene alone is worth the admission money and will have fanboys and -girls squeal in delight. More to come soon.
8 out of 10 bone drills.
You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.