“Wolverine is recovering from his injuries when he crosses paths with the loudmouth Deadpool. Together, they team up to defeat a common enemy.” This is the widely available synopsis for Deadpool & Wolverine. I will refrain from elaborating further on the plot to avoid revealing key details. So, are you ready? Prepare yourself: this film delivers.
Prior to the first Deadpool film, I wasn’t particularly invested in the character or Ryan Reynolds, the actor portraying him. While acknowledging Reynolds’ charm and charisma evident in his previous roles, he hadn’t particularly stood out. However, after experiencing the first Deadpool, I became an enthusiastic fan. The release of Deadpool 2 two years later solidified my appreciation for the Canadian actor and the fourth-wall-breaking persona of Deadpool. The humor resonated deeply with me.
Following 2018, further Deadpool movie development stalled. Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox placed the character in a state of uncertainty. The question arose: how would Disney integrate this unconventional character into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)? It presented a unique challenge, akin to introducing Hannibal Lecter as the chef at a children’s birthday party.
After a six-year wait, the film has arrived. Having seen it, and with the preview coinciding with my birthday, I can offer my perspective. Was it a memorable experience, or a disappointing one? To ensure every reader can experience the film as intended, this review will remain entirely spoiler-free.
Deadpool & Wolverine surpasses Spider-man: No Way Home, establishing itself, in my opinion, as the pinnacle of Marvel films. Despite having viewed the trailer approximately 20 times – a practice I usually avoid to prevent spoilers – the film offers an abundance of fresh and engaging content. This movie is exceptionally humorous (apologies to James Gunn, but Guardians of the Galaxy falls short) and surprisingly poignant, not only within the Marvel universe but across various genres. The synergy between Director Shawn Levy and Ryan Reynolds is undeniable, as previously demonstrated in their collaboration on Free Guy.
Deadpool & Wolverine also features some of the most rewarding cameo appearances to date. While fan-service has become a recurring element in recent films, it has never been executed with such finesse. The film provides explanations for various aspects, including Wolverine’s iconic yellow suit from the comics. Hugh Jackman once again proves his acting prowess, and a particular scene featuring our protagonists in a car is a masterclass in cinematic storytelling from beginning to end.
While key supporting characters from the initial two Deadpool films have reduced screen time, their presence remains integral to the narrative. They don’t feel neglected, although I would have welcomed greater exposure, particularly for Morena Baccarin as Vanessa.
I also commend Ryan Reynolds for maintaining the mask for the majority of the film. The instances where he removes it feel justified and authentic, a stark contrast to Ant-Man And The Wasp: Quantumania where helmets and masks are removed with excessive frequency.
The action sequences are entertaining and intense, and the filmmakers deliver on their commitment to maintaining the R-rating established in the previous films. Emma Corrin delivers a compelling performance as Cassandra Nova, serving as an excellent foil to our anti-heroic leads. I am eager to discuss other characters, but as previously stated, this review will remain spoiler-free.
Are there any shortcomings in Deadpool & Wolverine? Not significantly. However, if I were to nitpick, two sequences could have been refined. One involves a character’s landing on a sign, which feels somewhat juvenile compared to the overall tone. The other is a joke that extends for an excessive duration, exemplifying instances where Ryan Reynolds’ improvisations lack sufficient moderation.
The most significant drawback is the inability to assign a rating higher than ten!
In conclusion, I left the screening with an overwhelming sense of satisfaction. The film delivered everything I had anticipated and more. There is much more I wish to convey, but at the risk of repetition, I will refrain from spoiling the viewing experience.
As stated, the film receives a perfect score, and I am now optimistic about Marvel’s future, at least until the premiere of Captain America: Brave New World in February 2025. That film faces a considerable challenge to even be considered in the same league as Deadpool & Wolverine.
I also recommend that you remain in your seats during the end credits!
