With the Marvel Cinematic Universe (or MCU) at what can only be described as a low point, now is the perfect time for an entry that discards the rule book to breathe some life into a damaged franchise. Co-written and directed by Shawn Levy, Deadpool & Wolverine is a thrilling adventure, even if it offers little beneath its, admittedly thrilling, cameo-saturated surface.
On a quest to save the multiverse, Deadpool unites with Wolverine as they face off against an existential threat. The film stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. They are joined by Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney and many more recognisable faces that should not be spoiled.
A full analysis of Deadpool & Wolverine would reveal a movie propelled by convenient plot elements, cliche dialogue and a truly weak story. These are vital filmmaking elements that would destroy the quality of most movies. One could review this feature poorly on those factors alone and they wouldn’t be wrong in their assertion. But such a cold evaluation would discard the most important quality of all, the viewing experience itself.
With the above in mind, Deadpool & Wolverine is an absolute joy to watch. Following an approach that prioritises fun, one would need to be completely jaded by the comic book genre to not find, at minimum, some enjoyment in this picture. Some jokes may not land well but many more are executed with perfect comedic timing, a fantastic juxtaposition to the violent action that occurs throughout.
As mentioned, this is a film that relishes in its gory fight scenes. Thanks to some tremendous choreography, the action displayed is some of the best you will see in any MCU release. All this combined with the fourth-wall-demolishing tone results in a narrative that prioritises what it does best and puts little time in its weaker areas.
In many ways, this is a love letter to the Fox-era of Marvel releases. Cameos aplenty, the film gives enough time to the surprises, letting them breathe and ensuring they don’t feel cheap. Of course, some characters show up for just a few seconds, but they are usually included in a montage that doesn’t affect the flow of the narrative too much.
Without a doubt, the heart of the picture is Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. Ryan Reynolds is wonderful as always but Jackman is the star of the show. While he has played the character too many times to count, this is a stellar rendition of Wolverine that stands firm amongst the best. Expectedly exceptional in his physicality, Jackman rips layers of emotion from a script that barely gives him anything to work with. If this ends up being his last outing as the character, it is a solid one to go out on.
Deadpool & Wolverine is a film that delivers on its promise of being a fun time filled with laughs and action. Against all odds, they have successfully created a quality R-rated release in the MCU.