Film: Deadpool and Wolverine

“Welcome to the MCU, you’re joining at a bit of a low point” quips Deadpool at one point…oh how much there is to read into this one jokey line.

As this hotly anticipated third Deadpool film not only marks the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first R-Rated blockbuster foray but also is saddled with the hopes of restoring the franchise’s previously stellar critical and box office reputation, that - in the wake of corporate content overload and formula fatigue - has taken a bit (or lot) of a knock.

Add to this Hugh Jackman’s unthinkable (after the finality of James Mangold’s Logan) return as Wolverine and a lot of promised treats for fans, as well as some cynicism as to whether Disney will water down the Deadpool formula (as this is the first in the series released since the Disney Fox acquisition) and you have a film with a lot more on its mind that just Ryan Reynolds’ dirty gags…although there are plenty of those too!

The film sees Wade Wilson (aka Deadpool) (Reynolds) wanting to achieve more as an actual hero, and his chance may arrive as he is sought out by the Time Variance Authority, who recruit him to help safeguard the multiverse. Needless to say events spiral out of control, as ‘the merc with a mouth’ may need to rely on his long-pursued but very uneasy alliance with former X-Men legend Wolverine (Jackman) to save his world and many others from annihilation.

Despite the stakes, thankfully, Deadpool and Wolverine is a great heap of fun, that delivers exactly what was asked of it. No more, no less. And that's absolutely fine. And the record-breaking box office success certainly speaks to that, but it is admittedly deserved.

Of course, nitpicks can be made and we can all argue over how this once juggernaut universe currently sits, and in what shape, but Deadpool has given the MCU a much-needed vodka shot of energy and flavour, and in the process is a surprisingly moving tribute to 20th Century Fox, and a bygone era of superhero cinema and both its successes and failures.

Reynolds was born for this role and from NSYNC dancing to butt-slapping and dog-adoring, he throws himself into the proceedings with the usual self-deprecating gusto. While Jackman's return suggests that he was too made for the part that he portrays, as he steals the show (no easy task) as Logan/Wolverine.

There are also plenty of cameos to enjoy too, one especially made me smile, and confirmed a thought I've had about a certain character and project for years! There really is only one! If you happen to have been anywhere near social media the last few months you likely know many of the roster of people and characters that make an appearance but lets - for the sake of those resilient few - still remain tight-lipped on the spoilers.

Deadpool and Wolverine is a big, violent, funny time at the movies. With some standout gags, references and incredible music choices…and remixes (that choir version of “Like a Prayer”!). Its elements combine to create a deranged, saucy and naughty superhero multiverse-lampooning spectacle. That has a few surprisingly insightful and poignant touches too.

Is it shameful fan service? Oh, absolutely, and it is self-admitted with it. And while this film may not win admirers of the genre who are already dead against it, Deadpool and Wolverine’s effectiveness comes down to whether it delivers as promised? In a word yes. In two, hell yes, and in a foul-mouthed two words…fu…well you get the idea with that one.

15
Director: Shawn Levy
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin
Release Date: Out Now (Cinemas, Digita