Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin
Genre: Buddy Comedy, Superhero, Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Director: Shawn Levy
In Irish Cinemas: 25th July 2024
The stakes are exceptionally high in the upcoming Deadpool and Wolverine films. The fate of Wade Wilson’s timeline teeters on the brink of destruction, and on a broader scale, the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) hangs in the balance. This film represents the only theatrical release for the MCU this year, carrying immense expectations on its shoulders. The MCU dominated the box office for over a decade, effortlessly creating billion-dollar franchises. This success reached a zenith with Avengers: Endgame, a monumental achievement in cinematic storytelling that became the second highest-grossing film ever. It held the top spot briefly before being surpassed by an Avatar re-release. Thus, the performance and reception of Deadpool and Wolverine will be pivotal in sustaining the MCU’s legacy and momentum.
Since the conclusion of the Infinity Saga, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has yet to match its previous high level of success consistently. While there have been hits, critical and commercial reception have notably declined. This places considerable pressure on Deadpool, who now faces the challenge of revitalising the franchise. Deadpool, known for his sarcastic humour and breaking the fourth wall, humorously casts himself as the ‘Marvel Jesus’ of the MCU’s timeline, a role that underscores his unique position and potential impact on the franchise. The combination of Deadpool and Wolverine offers an opportunity for the franchise to hit the reset button or at least serve as a refreshing change of pace. At its best, the pairing delivers laugh-out-loud moments, impressive action scenes, and a wealth of in-jokes, references, and cameos. It encapsulates what fans currently seek in an MCU movie—a blend of humour and action—making it more of a delightful diversion than a complete overhaul of the series.
Following the events of “Deadpool 2,” Wade Wilson has shelved his iconic red-and-black suit and taken up an unsatisfactory job in car sales. He’s also ended his relationship with Vanessa (Morena Baccarin), feeling stuck and without a greater purpose—especially since he’s never been invited to the Avengers. However, to integrate Deadpool into the official Marvel Cinematic Universe (Earth-616), the film quickly sets him on a new path. Wade is unexpectedly captured by the Time Variance Authority (TVA), an organisation introduced in the “Loki” Disney Plus series. This movie caters to those familiar with the intricacies of the MCU. It rewards viewers who can distinguish between Marvel’s cinematic universes, especially those who know Kevin Feige as the driving force behind Marvel Studios.
As the title indicates, Wolverine plays a pivotal role in this story. Despite his noble demise in 2017’s “Logan”, Hugh Jackman returns to his iconic character, who is humorously resurrected in an early scene to address a looming threat that could obliterate Deadpool’s timeline (the Fox universe where the X-Men existed before the Disney merger). This version of Wolverine is a variant, distinct mainly in his classic yellow and blue costume, though fans of the X-Men films will recognise familiar traits. This time, however, he’s portrayed as rougher, heavier on the drinking, and carrying even more emotional baggage, with the reasons for his increased angst gradually revealed throughout the narrative.
The unlikely pairing of Deadpool and Wolverine is the primary attraction in this film, both on-screen and off. Off-screen, Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds, who have become well-known for their humorous interactions and promotional antics, bring their chemistry to the forefront. This dynamic is a significant draw, and it certainly pays off. Ryan Reynolds embodies Deadpool’s talkative, comedic nature, executing a memorable sequence that combines a dance routine set to *NSYNC with an action-packed battle against henchmen. As a co-writer on the script, Reynolds delivers some of the film’s best jokes—while not everyone hits the mark, the sheer volume ensures that there’s always another witty line around the corner.
On the other hand, Hugh Jackman brings a surprising depth to Wolverine, a character he could easily have portrayed cynically at this stage in his career. His continued dedication to the role, now in his tenth full performance (or twelfth if you include brief cameos in previous Deadpool films), is impressive. Jackman’s portrayal remains fresh and engaging, a testament to his talent and dedication as an actor.
While the unconventional duo forms the story’s core, several vital new characters make a significant impact. Emma Corrin shines as Cassandra Nova, delivering a memorable performance despite limited screen time. Corrin, known for their work in “The Crown,” brings a nuanced complexity to the role. Additionally, Matthew Macfadyen portrays Mr. Paradox, a bureaucrat from the Time Variance Authority (TVA) responsible for steering Deadpool toward his ultimate fate. Macfadyen skillfully captures the essence of a corporate schemer, offering a fresh take on the archetype distinct from his role as Tom Wambsgams in “Succession.” Rob Delaney’s character, Peter, also returns, providing delightful moments with brief but impactful appearances.
Directors of Marvel movies often adhere to the franchise’s established style, leaving little room for individual expression. However, Shawn Levy, new to the Marvel fold, brings his distinct touch to the latest Deadpool instalment. Levy, known for his previous work with Ryan Reynolds in “Free Guy” and “The Adam Project” and Hugh Jackman in *Real Steel*, expertly blends the expected Marvel elements with a fresh emotional depth. This instalment reveals a side of Deadpool that hasn’t been as prominent before, highlighting a sweetness beneath the character’s R-rated humour, especially in scenes involving Dogpool. Levy’s direction ensures that the film’s action sequences are vibrant and dynamic, capturing the essence of comic book storytelling. The film doesn’t shy away from the graphic violence and edgy humour that fans have come to expect, even though it’s the first Deadpool movie under Disney’s banner. This blend of outrageous comedy and heartfelt moments, combined with a stronger focus on personal stakes, sets this film apart from previous entries in the series.
Despite some cameos being teased in numerous pre-release trailers, unexpected appearances will still thrill even the most dedicated fans. This ability to surprise is the film’s most outstanding achievement, delivering some genuinely astonishing moments. However, it’s still being determined how the movie will hold up to repeated viewings once the element of surprise fades. Although bold and confident, the film only partially commits to shaking things up; Deadpool and Wolverine’s inclusion doesn’t lead to a drastic reboot. Instead, the film repeatedly reminds viewers of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s tendency to play it safe. Several plot threads are left unresolved, making one wish that the TVA had intervened to tidy things up. Nonetheless, the film is a whirlwind of fun, efficiently crammed with fan service within its concise runtime. It’s a wild ride from start to finish.
Overall: 8/10
Movie Reviewer
