Wolverine is recovering from his injuries when he crosses paths with the loudmouth, Deadpool. They team up to defeat a common enemy.
Deadpool and Wolverine, directed by Shawn Levy and written by Levy, Rhett Reese, and Ryan Reynolds, marks the latest entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Starring Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool, Hugh Jackman reprising his iconic role as Wolverine, and Emma Corrin, the film brings together two of the most beloved characters in superhero cinema for a wild, irreverent adventure.
Ryan Reynolds, who has helmed the Deadpool franchise since its inception in 2016, makes his MCU debut with the same brand of humour that has defined his character over the past decade. His performance is characterized by meta-humour, crass jokes, and a relentless pace of comedic quips. However, as with the previous films, the rapid-fire jokes can be a double-edged sword, often missing the mark and coming across as trying too hard.
Hugh Jackman, who has embodied Wolverine for nearly 25 years, brings new dimensions to a character many thought had peaked in Logan. In Deadpool and Wolverine, he finds himself in a series of poorly crafted and confusing circumstances, particularly for viewers unfamiliar with the Loki series. Despite these narrative weaknesses, the chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman is undeniable, and their forced partnership is a highlight of the film.
The meta element remains strong, with the film poking fun at itself and the broader Marvel brand. This self-awareness, however, is somewhat ironic and disappointing as the movie falls into some of the same pitfalls it mocks, without providing much payoff or deeper commentary. The script, instead of opting for mockery, pays homage to the superheroes who paved the way for the MCU. This approach allows the film to celebrate these characters, giving them significant roles rather than relegating them to mere cameos.
Deadpool and Wolverine is a film designed to be enjoyed in a packed movie theater, surrounded by fans who appreciate the multitude of references, (self)parodies, and special appearances. The movie is a tribute and a farewell to the old 20th Century Fox era, filled with mockeries of Disney, Marvel executives, the Avengers, and the X-Men. The film is still very much an R-rated Deadpool movie, featuring all the expected elements: decapitations, gushing blood, explicit jokes, drug use, constant violence, and frequent fourth-wall breaks.
Shawn Levy excels in directing the fight scenes, which are vibrant, fun, and original. Despite its flaws, such as the uneven quality of visual effects and a somewhat predictable story, the film remains entertaining. The story never loses its way, most of the jokes land, and the movie provides moments that fans never thought they would see on screen. Its primary aim is to entertain and reconnect with viewers who may have been disappointed by recent entries in the multiverse saga.
The film is packed with references to over a dozen pre-MCU superhero movies, making it a treat for those with an encyclopedic knowledge of the genre. As Marvel's first R-rated film, it takes full advantage of its ability to use strong language and adult humour. Deadpool and Wolverine is a popcorn flick that is enjoyable as long as you don't overthink its logic or its place in the larger MCU narrative.
Many of the film's surprise cameos are already known to the public, but it's best to experience them firsthand. The movie spends a significant amount of time both savaging and eulogizing the Fox era, even staging a battle in front of a giant, sand-buried Fox logo reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty scene from Planet of the Apes.
Unfortunately, the film doesn't deliver much in terms of narrative coherence or standalone storytelling. The visual effects are inconsistent; some closeups are luminous and vibrant, particularly in night scenes, while other shots, especially daylight panoramas in the limbo sequence, appear flat and devoid of detail.
Despite a predictable story, the film's focus on superhero battles, myriad Easter eggs, and Reynolds' incessant quipping keep the audience engaged. Hugh Jackman receives a satisfying redemption arc that aligns with Wolverine's brooding persona. Reynolds, as always, seems to revel in playing Deadpool, a character he revived and positioned as the antithesis of everything Marvel traditionally stands for.
Deadpool and Wolverine throw a lot at the audience, from over-the-top violent fights set to pop songs to an extra-juicy post-credits scene, and nearly all of it works. This is the Marvel movie fans have been eagerly awaiting. The cameos, which I won't spoil, are both surprising and contextually relevant, paying homage to Fox's X-Men and other properties they've held over the decades.
Deadpool and Wolverine is a chaotic, hilarious, and heartfelt tribute to pre-MCU superhero films. While it may not offer a strong standalone narrative, its relentless humour, vibrant action scenes, and numerous references make it a must-watch for fans. Despite its flaws, the film succeeds in its primary mission: to entertain and reconnect with viewers, offering a joyous farewell to an era of superhero cinema that paved the way for the MCU.