Deadpool & Wolverine just released to record-breaking results and is on the fast track to shattering even more ceilings for an R-Rated release. The movie, which stars the ever-charismatic Ryan Reynolds and the beloved Hugh Jackman, sees the long-awaited team-up up of the titular characters who embark on a journey the likes of which we have not yet seen in the MCU. And to put it bluntly, Reynolds and Jackman are at the top of their game. However, the movie is unfortunately not as great as we were expecting due to a weak story, and several plot points that were poorly explained or not explained at all. Despite this, the movie is a must-see and a ton of fun at the theater. But, let’s dive in a little deeper without any spoilers, shall we?
As mentioned, Reynolds’ portrayal of Deadpool is as sharp and irreverent as ever, while Jackman seamlessly reprises his role as the ferocious Wolverine, delivering the gritty performance fans have come to love. The two of them together is as opposite as it gets and as you can imagine, often turns violent and bloody… oh god does it get bloody. Visually, the fight scenes and all that violence is just what we were hoping for and we got plenty of it.
The visual effects in this film are nothing short of impressive, creating a stunning backdrop for the characters’ antics and epic battles with a ton of easter eggs and unique chance encounters with… well, I won’t spoil that for you. The jokes, as expected, are often excellent and land frequently, which kept the audience laughing throughout the entirety of the film and I hear it was the same at every theater.
D&W is packed with numerous cameos that go beyond mere appearances, adding depth and excitement to the story as well as acting as a respectful farewell to those that came before. Almost like a love letter to the Fox X-Men extended universe and everyone involved until Disney’s acquisition of those franchise characters. This spoiler-free review respects those surprises, as they are a delight for fans to experience and we won’t touch on any of them here.
While the film excels in many areas, the story is unfortunately and surprisngly, its weakest point. There are flimsy elements and noticeable plot holes, which are somewhat expected in a multiversal film featuring the fourth-wall-breaking Deadpool. But these narrative issues are something viewers will have to overlook to fully enjoy the film. After leaving the theater, I could not help but imagine all the things that could have been done differently to enhance the story some, as there were many, MANY opportunities that presented themselves and were just missed over or passed on entirely.
One of the most important themes of Deadpool & Wolverine is its dedicated fond farewell and appreciation for the Fox movies. Now that Disney owns the rights to these beloved characters, the film pays respect to everyone and everything that came before. It also takes a few tongue-in-cheek shots at the things that didn’t work across the X-Men and other Marvel films while honoring the many aspects that knocked it out of the park. It is so difficult not elaborating further but when you see the movie yourself, you will understand.
There are a surprising number of moments that push the envelope, including some sharp jabs at the current state of the MCU, all delivered in hilarious fashion. Things that quite honestly, are shocking that Feige and Disney let Reynolds get away with. And, do not worry- despite Hugh Jackman previously stating he was done with the character, his return as Wolverine respects the ending of Logan, while also locking in and solidifying his future in the MCU.
Deadpool & Wolverine is a must-see film. Although it isn’t as great as it could have been due to its weak story, it reminds us that the plot does not have to be the primary focus in a film about the fourth-wall-breaking Deadpool. Plus, Fox’s X-Men timelines are famously messy and all over the place, something that is sort of a backdrop for D&W. Besides, the dynamic duo of Deadpool & Wolverine working together is what truly matters here. And we can’t wait to see these characters brought into the fold of the larger MCU and what this franchise has in store for its next big story arc.
