Deadpool & Wolverine: Mutant mayhem & meta-humour

Title: Deadpool & Wolverine
Release date: July 25, 2024
Duration: 2 hours 7 minutes
Director: Shawn Levy
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfayden
Genre: Action-adventure
Rating: M18 (violence and coarse language)
Score: ✓✓✓✓

Prepare for the buddy cop movie you never knew you needed, starring two of Marvel’s most iconic (and inappropriate) characters.

Deadpool & Wolverine explodes onto the screen in a flurry of blood, bullets, and fourth-wall-breaking jokes, delivering a hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt superhero romp.

The film throws the Merc with a Mouth and the grizzled Wolverine into a hijinks-filled adventure, forcing them to confront their pasts along with some genuine emotions along the way.

Hits 

While time travel and multiverse shenanigans aren’t new concepts, the film injects enough Deadpool-esque absurdity to keep things fresh. Seeing Wolverine dragged along for the insane ride adds a delightful layer of grumpy charm to the chaos.

The film is a perfectly paced thrill ride, with exhilarating action sequences and impeccable comedic timing that ensures that there’s never a dull moment.

But don't be fooled by the constant barrage of jokes and gore. Deadpool & Wolverine delivers a surprising amount of emotional depth. We see Deadpool grappling with real stakes and Wolverine confronting his own inner demons, adding unexpected layers to these beloved characters.

Ryan Reynolds is Deadpool. He embodies the character's chaotic energy with such natural charisma that it's impossible to imagine anyone else in the role. Hugh Jackman embraces Wolverine's usual brooding intensity, while still able to reveal a surprisingly comedic side, proving his impressive range.

But the heart of the film is the on-screen dynamic between Reynolds and Jackman. Their love-hate banter feels authentic and hilarious, making their unlikely partnership utterly believable and entertaining.

Both actors seamlessly transition from laugh-out-loud humour to moments of genuine emotion, proving their acting chops go beyond the action and comedy.

Director Shawn Levy masterfully balances over-the-top action, meta-humour, and surprisingly heartfelt character moments, creating a unique and cohesive cinematic experience.

From the kinetic action sequences to the clever use of slow-motion and visual gags, the film is visually dynamic and engaging. The soundtrack, a mix of orchestral scores and hilariously placed pop songs, adds another layer of enjoyment - especially when they’re accompanied by an unexpected dance number.

Every element of Deadpool & Wolverine, from the performances to the technical aspects, works in perfect harmony to bring this wacky and wonderful vision to life.

The special effects, particularly during the action sequences featuring a battle between hordes of mutants and the protagonists, as well as the Deadpool Corps fight scene, are top-notch, seamlessly blending with the practical effects to create a visually stunning spectacle.

The film is visually dazzling, featuring a variety of vibrant and detailed sets across different time periods and dimensions. And yes, Wolverine fans, we finally see him don the classic yellow suit!

Misses

While not overtly focused on social commentary, the film explores themes of redemption and second chances through its characters' journeys.

However, this is unapologetically a film for fans. Casual viewers might enjoy the action and humour, but the numerous Marvel Cinematic Universe and Fox Marvel movies references may fly over their heads unless they’re already familiar with these universes.

Is it worth a watch?

Deadpool & Wolverine is a pure popcorn flick designed to entertain, and it succeeds with flying, bloody colours.

It's a wild ride from start to finish, packed with action, laughs, and enough meta-references to satisfy even the most jaded comic book movie fan.

If you're a fan of the characters, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or simply want a fun and ridiculously entertaining cinematic experience, then strap in and prepare for a wild ride. You won't be disappointed.

However, if over-the-top violence, crude humour, and a barrage of in-jokes aren’t your thing, then this might be one to skip.