Nine years ago, X-men – Origins: Wolverine was released (not to be confused with: The Wolverine ) from 2013 or Logan -The Wolverine from 2017 or the upcoming The Wolverine Goes to Camp (2019) and the animated Wolverine and his friends). In that film, the character Deadpool made his (sort of) debut. Ryan Reynolds, during the filming of Blade 3, heard that he would be ideal to play the anti-hero Deadpool. Consequently, he immediately accepted the opportunity to portray him in the Wolverine movie. However, the filmmakers’ vision of Deadpool differed significantly from the established character. This version was met with criticism and derision, and the character remained dormant for some time. Until a short, animated YouTube film emerged, presenting Deadpool as he should be: breaking the fourth wall, exhibiting graphic violence, and delivering sharp humor. This generated considerable buzz, and a few years later, the feature film Deadpool premiered in 2016. The film defied expectations by achieving significant success despite its R-rating (restricted in the US), demonstrating audience demand for mature superhero content. Plans for a sequel commenced even before the premiere of the first film, driven by exceptionally positive pre-release reception. Now, Deadpool 2 is available, and the question is whether it surpasses the original.
Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) continues his exploits as a superhero, combatting crime with humor, unconventional tactics, and references to Dolly Parton. However, a personal tragedy disrupts his world (specifics omitted to avoid spoilers). In despair, he attempts suicide, an endeavor rendered impossible by his regenerative abilities. Colossus (Stefan Kapicic), showing rare sympathy, brings him to the X-Men mansion. Deadpool begins as an intern, but his first assignment quickly devolves into chaos, resulting in his imprisonment alongside the volatile Firefist (Julian Dennison), a youth with severe anger management issues. The situation escalates with the arrival of Cable (Josh Brolin), a time-traveling figure seeking retribution for future events. Aided by new allies such as Domino (Zazie Beetz), Deadpool embarks on a mission to confront Cable, save Firefist, and return to his cherished stuffed Unicorn.
Deadpool 2 maintains the quality of its predecessor, even with David Leitch replacing Tim Miller as director. The film successfully balances humor and graphic violence, a feat that requires careful execution. As demonstrated by the contrast between the excellent Kick-Ass and the inferior Kick-Ass 2, a change in director can significantly impact a film’s tone. However, in this case, the directorial change does not detract from the overall quality. Leitch’s action sequences, characterized by long takes, are a notable improvement.
The film immediately establishes a frenetic and unpredictable tone that persists throughout. Like the first installment, Deadpool 2 appeals with its humor, self-aware narrative, and direct engagement with the audience. While such an approach could easily become tiresome, the film grounds its comedic elements with genuine emotional depth. As Deadpool himself states, “This is a family film.”
Ultra-HD 4K is ideally suited for films like this, delivering exceptional detail and enhanced color vibrancy through HDR10 compared to standard Full-HD and SDR. The UHD 4K edition comprises four discs, two for each format (UHD & BD) featuring both the theatrical and Super Duper Cut versions. The Blu-ray edition offers a sharp and clear picture, with robust audio (DTS-HD MA 7.1 on BD; UHD features Dolby Atmos) that effectively balances impactful sound effects with clear dialogue. The edition includes a wealth of bonus content, much of which is genuinely engaging, though it lacks the depth that some enthusiasts might desire. The disc also includes the Super-Duper cut, an extended version of the film with additional scenes of graphic violence and irreverent dialogue. For those curious, the Baby-Hitler scene is included in the Super-duper cut.
Ryan Reynolds is perfectly cast as Deadpool, a role he could convincingly perform indefinitely. The R-rating allows him to push boundaries and deliver biting humor, often directing the sharpest barbs at himself. A scene during the end credits stands out as particularly hilarious and bizarre.
Josh Brolin is equally well-suited as Cable. Brolin appears in two major Marvel films in the same year, portraying distinct characters. While Cable may lack the nuanced depth of Thanos, Brolin imbues him with a compelling stoicism and dry wit.
Morena Baccarin returns as Vanessa, though her screen time is somewhat reduced. She serves as a catalyst for the film’s plot. While the love story was a highlight of the first film, it feels abbreviated in this sequel.
Julian Dennison is effective as Firefist, though the character remains somewhat underdeveloped. Deadpool’s established associates, Weasle (T.J. Miller), Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), and Blind Al (Leslie Uggams), also return, alongside taxi driver Dopinder (Karan Soni). While Dopinder provided some amusement in the first film, his role feels overextended in this installment.
Domino, portrayed by Zazie Beetz, is a welcome addition, and her character is likely to appear in future sequels. Deadpool’s X-Force team, featuring Bill Skarsgård, also makes a brief cameo.
Regarding X-Force, there are a few minor drawbacks to the film, specifically the handling of the team. I will refrain from providing details to avoid spoilers, but the associated joke is somewhat ineffective. Additionally, the character of Peter (Rob Delany), an ordinary individual who joins the group, works well as a trailer gag but feels strained within the film itself.
Overall, the script is competent, although some areas could benefit from greater depth. The post-credits ending introduces certain plot inconsistencies.
However, no film is without flaws. If you enjoyed the first film, you are likely to enjoy the second. Prepare some popcorn, put the children to bed, and be aware that this film contains moments of considerable violence.
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