Review by Jon Donnis
"Deadpool & Wolverine," directed by Shawn Levy, is a vibrant and audacious entry into the superhero genre, melding the irreverent charm of the Deadpool franchise with the raw intensity of Wolverine. Serving as a sequel to Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018), the film deftly navigates the complex multiverse of Marvel, bringing together fan-favourite characters in a chaotic and thrilling adventure.
The narrative begins with Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool, living a mundane life as a used-car salesman, having retired from his days of mercenary antics. His peaceful existence is abruptly disrupted when the Time Variance Authority (TVA) recruits him to help safeguard the multiverse. The story quickly escalates as Wade learns of the impending destruction of his original timeline, Earth-10005, due to the death of its "anchor being," James "Logan" Howlett. This sets the stage for Wade's quest to find a variant of Logan, leading to his encounter with a particularly unremarkable Wolverine, deemed the "worst in the multiverse."
The film's greatest strength lies in the dynamic between Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine. Their on-screen chemistry is electric, filled with quips, bickering, and begrudging camaraderie. Reynolds brings his usual witty, fourth-wall-breaking humour, making every scene he's in a potential comedic highlight. Jackman, meanwhile, explores new facets of Wolverine, portraying not only his familiar gruff exterior but also various unique variants, including a comic-accurate short Wolverine, the suave Patch, and a weary Old Man Logan. This diversity in portrayal adds depth and fresh intrigue to a character long established in cinematic lore.
Emma Corrin's portrayal of Cassandra Nova, the enigmatic twin sister of Charles Xavier, stands out as a highlight. Corrin brings a chilling presence to the character, combining telekinetic prowess with a nuanced, otherworldly charm. Matthew Macfadyen's Mr. Paradox, a TVA agent with dubious motives, serves as a compelling antagonist, weaving a plot that delves into the ethics of multiverse manipulation and the consequences of absolute power.
The film is visually impressive, with meticulously crafted action sequences that balance humour and high stakes. The journey through the multiverse offers an array of stunning and often bizarre settings, each adding to the film's eclectic atmosphere. The action is both inventive and visceral, with fight scenes that are as amusing as they are intense. The choreography, coupled with Deadpool's meta-commentary and Wolverine's brute force, makes for a uniquely entertaining experience.
One of the film's most delightful aspects is its unapologetic embrace of fan service. Cameos from unexpected Marvel characters and nods to various comic book lore add layers of enjoyment for die-hard fans. While some critics might argue that the film leans too heavily on meme-derived gags and meta humour, these elements are precisely what make it a quintessential Deadpool experience. The movie doesn't shy away from poking fun at itself, and by extension, the superhero genre's saturation, making it a refreshing watch amidst the more serious entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Despite its comedic leanings, the film does not neglect emotional beats. Wade's journey, filled with loss and regret, mirrors Logan's own haunted past, giving their relationship a surprisingly poignant edge. The script, while packed with jokes, also allows for moments of introspection and genuine connection, making the duo's adventure more than just a string of laugh-out-loud moments.
In conclusion, Deadpool & Wolverine delivers exactly what it promises: a wild, hilarious, and action-packed ride. It's a film that revels in its absurdity, offering a much-needed respite from the typical superhero fare. The performances are top-notch, especially from Reynolds and Jackman, who clearly relish their roles. The movie's blend of sharp wit, fan service, and explosive action makes it a standout in the MCU lineup. For fans of either franchise, or those simply looking for a fun escape, this film is an unmissable treat. It earns a well-deserved 9.5 out of 10, solidifying its place as a must-watch superhero spectacle.
Out Now in Cinemas
