Review: Deadpool has always been known for his wisecracks and witty comebacks, but this time, Ryan Reynolds (also a co-writer) takes it up several notches, making this Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) tentpole a riotous affair. His comedic punches are even more impactful than the physical ones, both of which land with an impact.
Director Shawn Levy, hailed by many as the saviour of the MCU’s troubled fortunes, delivers a self-aware, self-deprecating gag fest from the very first scene. This franchise outing spares no one, poking fun at everything – from Disney’s takeover of Fox to Hugh Jackman’s seemingly eternal association with the franchise as Wolverine. Even Captain America and Mad Max aren’t safe from Deadpool’s relentless jabs. It’s a no-holds-barred chaotic comedy that pulls out all the stops, and we are definitely not complaining.
The plot is straightforward yet engaging: one insanely powerful enemy against two superheroes, one of whom is desperate to become an Avenger. Deadpool’s world, consisting of the nine people he truly cares about, is in danger, and to save it, he ropes in a variant of the late James ‘Logan’ Howlett or the Wolverine. Logan, now stuck with Deadpool’s incessant chatter, finds himself in the Void, facing the formidable villain Cassandra Nova (Emma-Louise Corrin) alongside a slew of other superheroes, leading to bloody battles and relentless action.
Ryan Reynolds is the heartbeat of this movie. We expect Deadpool to be unfiltered and offensive, but Reynolds elevates it to another level. His relentless banter fuels the madness of this installment, making it clear that Deadpool is an equal-opportunity offender. Reynolds’ unhinged portrayal of Deadpool is a testament to the franchise’s desperate need for a course correction. The film shatters the fourth wall and even takes on the fans, with Deadpool addressing them as nerds and making cheeky comments about their “special sock” for the most anticipated fight scenes. This back-to-basics approach reminds us that at its core, this franchise is based on a comic book after all and should never have been more complicated.
Hugh Jackman plays it cool as Wolverine, but his character shows signs of weariness, which Deadpool humorously addresses by suggesting the MCU will keep Jackman in the role until he’s 90. Jackman takes the joke in his stride, and their on-screen chemistry flows organically. The mindless banter, sexual innuendos, and tension amid the bromance are complemented by intense action and bloodshed. There’s enough and more of it, but one wonders when to really feel worried about any of the characters because almost everyone is always immortal. Well almost. The film boasts spectacular visuals typical of a big-screen outing, and at just over two hours, it seldom feels like a drag. There are many noteworthy cameos, but we aren’t the ones to give spoilers of any kind. Emma Corrin stands out as the evil Cassandra Nova, her petite frame belying the raw power she wields.
Whether you’re a fan or not, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ keeps you engaged with its constant stream of action and humor. It helps to be familiar with the legacy characters and storyline (as messy and complicated as it may be) to fully appreciate the experience, especially when watching it with an enthusiastic audience. ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ breaks barriers and goes where other MCU films haven’t, capturing nostalgia, humour, and most importantly, delivering oodles of entertainment. This is exactly what the franchise needs to stay relevant and enjoyable.
