If you had told me back in 2018 that the second Deadpool movie, which I got bored with and had a cheesy ending with Wade changing all of history, would somehow pay off in six years, I’d still not take you seriously. But now that I’ve seen “Deadpool & Wolverine,” I can “say yes to affirm.”
This is a spoiler review, and my editor-in-chief will, if this line makes it to the final cut, add a cute little “Spoilers Ahead” banner under this line. So, for everyone who hasn’t seen it and for the marketing guys looking for snippets to quote in their promotional posts, I’ll give you a one-line review about this [redacted] movie: “What a beautiful, colorful, happy, and cute little family film!”
The film starts epic with Deadpool on a quest to find a Wolverine that can help save his universe from getting pruned. We revisit the 2017 classic “Logan,” which definitely doesn’t get ruined at all but rather plays as a running joke as we see Deadpool violating Logan’s corpse bit by bit as he uses it to fight the TVA minions in an entire sequence, which is a direct callback to Deadpool (2016). There couldn’t have been a better opening than this! I was very conscious and cheered and laughed like a maniac!
Then we get a backstory that goes on forever until Deadpool makes a sarcastic comment about audiences loving extended film runtime, and I’m like, “Yes! More popcorn!”
The entire stage set is hilarious, and every cameo they make is so on point that you cannot help but laugh! It’s hysterical! Every variant of Logan they show, including Henry Cavill’s, seems perfect! Also, we need to talk about Henry reloading his arms and how energetic that was as he brought his Cavillerine claws out and punched Deadpool. The gravity and velocity of that punch, my God! What are the odds that Ryan volunteered for a million takes of getting punched by Henry Cavill as he played (he did not) his own stuntman in that scene? What are the chances he said, “I’m not done yet. Let’s do another take! I’ve got one more unbroken rib left.”?
The story is much simpler than any Marvel film, but its execution sets it apart. Deadpool and Wolverine are proof that making audiences believe that they want something and then giving them that something will always work. Everybody knows Jackman would look like a jackass in that yellow costume, and they still did it. Why? Because that’s what the fans want to see and trust me, after that point, even if you make a million jokes about that suit (which they did, obviously!), it still works. Everything I’d consider ridiculous in other superhero films made me gag here. It’s as if the parodical nature of this film works so well that you can’t help but be happy about it!
The old Marvel team of Blade, Elektra, and the others joining in was such a thrill. And Channing Tatum? Dude’s a genius at gambling!
The song choices are crazy good. Pulsating rock anthems blend seamlessly with unexpected emotional ballads, creating a sonic landscape that perfectly mirrors Deadpool’s chaotic yet heartfelt journey.
Beyond the endless barrage of witty one-liners and pop culture references, the script masterfully balances humor, action, and genuine emotion. The way music and action intertwine is a testament to the incredible work of Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Zeb Wells, and Shawn Levy.
The action is lovely. And the color grading compliments it so much that, for a second, I forgot I was a Snyder Cultist! It’s so bright and beautiful. The suits look perfect, and every hero shot is right on point! They knew they had to give a “Get your socks ready, nerds!” warning when they made this. Seeing Wolverine fight Deadpool in the void was classic and iconic!
The only fight that maybe I wasn’t 100% satisfied with was the one where they did a team-up. It felt as if no character got the spotlight there, and it was all happening a little too fast. Wesley Snipes rocked it as Blade, but staying on the same team, I thought Dafne Keen’s X-23 was a little nerfed down. Maybe I’m too used to the 2017 beast that having a less aggressive X-23 here doesn’t make me happy as a fan. Nonetheless, it was portrayed beautifully.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Deadpool franchise is its ability to seamlessly blend outrageous comedy with genuine emotional depth. Ryan Reynolds has crafted a character who is unapologetically vulgar and absurd, yet undeniably human.
The film effortlessly navigates between side-splitting gags and heartfelt moments, leaving me with constant emotional whiplash. How on earth do you make a parody movie and still have time for the emotional moments that feel so genuine and heartfelt that the tissues you brought with you for the film end up being used to wipe tears off your face? That was not what they were intended for!
Before the film, as this one was among the most anticipated films of 2024, I remember having discussions with my Marvel friends as to who would be in the Lady Deadpool suit. Would it be Blake? Taylor? Ryan himself, or would he do the funniest thing ever and never show the unmasking? It was good to know this was a multiple-choice question. Blade as Lady Deadpool was perfect, along with the entire army of Deadpools that followed. We even had a Chibi Deadpool! And cowboy Deadpool and samurai Deadpool! This movie is a feast for cosplay culture! Oh… and… Peter!
The ending is as hysterical and parodic as it can be. At one point, it reminded me of Guardians of the Galaxy, but a minute later, I realized that GOTG doesn’t have Deadpool going gaga over Jackman’s abs! I love it!
Director Shawn Levy has crafted a cinematic masterpiece on a grand scale. Every frame has intricate details, clever visual gags, and surprising cameos. The film’s visual effects are stunning, seamlessly blending practical effects with digital magic to create a truly immersive experience. Levy’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every scene, from the sprawling action sequences to the quieter, character-driven moments. The result is a film that is both visually captivating and emotionally resonant.
The only other person who has the sheer audacity to make such a film would be James Gunn. And frankly, James Gunn has done this before! But guess what? The only person who can make me laugh so hysterically is Deadpool, because of the class act he pulls off, all while he makes every favorite X-men character of mine look like a [redacted] joke! So, Levy, hats off!
Chris Evans is in this movie! And not for the reasons you think he is! And they make sure to joke about that just right! Evans as Johnny Storm is such a vibe! Which brings me to the post-credits scene. I’m glad this movie doesn’t set up any future films with a post-credits scene, or that would’ve been the only thing people would talk about. The post-credits scene for this movie might be one of my most favorite post-credit sequences ever!
Ryan Reynolds once again proves why he is the perfect choice for Deadpool. His ability to seamlessly transition between laugh-out-loud humor and genuine emotional moments is unparalleled. His portrayal is a masterclass in comedic timing and character development. Reynolds’ Deadpool is more than just a foul-mouthed anti-hero; he’s a complex character with a surprising depth of emotion.
Hugh Jackman is phenomenal as Wolverine! I loved all the variants he plays, especially the one he re-created as a cover homage to Uncanny X-men #0246. He really should do it till he’s 90!
Emma Corrin as Cassandra Nova is amazing! At first, I was confused if it was Tilda Swinton as Nova, but a few seconds later, I settled for James McAvoy. Her character is so powerful and sassy, with a moral complex that made the story very interesting! I’ve not yet seen the X-men animated series or read the comics but how powerful are the Xaviers really? This was brilliant! I wish her role weren’t a “one-and-done” scenario. Mr. Feige, if you’re reading this, BRING HER BACK FOR MORE!
To summarize, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is a refreshing MCU entry. It is undoubtedly among the most entertaining films I’ve seen this year! Deadpool movies have permanently changed the landscape of comic book movies whenever they’re out (Ryan, you owe David Ayer a #ReleaseTheAyerCut tweet), and it’ll be interesting to see the MCU’s path moving forward as they regain their stance in the cinematic landscape. This film gives Marvel a much-needed boost. It is a perfect buddy film that you should check out with your buddies for the love of Jesus Christ, or it will be super FOMO!
I want to rate it four out of five stars for all its awesomeness.
