‘Deadpool And Wolverine’ Is A Passionate Energy-Fueled Action That Revives The Marvel Cinematic Universe, But Fluffs Any Real Stakes
Courtesy of Marvel Studios.
SPOILER FREE REVIEW
It’s finally here.
After years and years of speculation and studio changes, ‘Deadpool And Wolverine’ has landed — but not entirely on its feet.
Synopsis: Wolverine is recovering from his injuries when he crosses paths with the loudmouth Deadpool. They team up to defeat a common enemy.
The film, much like its predecessors, is a self-aware action/comedy thrill ride. It’s entertainment value is still going strong and that’s mostly thanks to performances from Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. Their dynamic is (for the lack of better words) perfect, and they play off each other continuously throughout the film’s short 2 hour runtime.
We begin with a depressed Wade Wilson, who wants so desperately to join the Avengers. Wilson is recruited by Briton Paradox (Matthew Macfadyen) in an attempt to lead a secret project with the aid of Logan (Wolverine).
Of course, things go wrong and they wind up in a wasteland full of banished superbeings, ruled by the telekinetic Cassandra Nova (Emma Corrin) who is perhaps the most underutilized character in the movie.
From there, we certainly go on an exciting adventure — riddled with hilarity. However, a lot of the jokes quickly become redundant and pull you out of the movie instead of feeling authentic or earned. Even for a jokester like Deadpool, it’s overkill, as the fourth wall breaks could be described as ‘annoying.’ Throwing 10,000 jokes at the screen within 2 hours hoping one or two might land is exhausting. Reynolds could’ve practiced more restraint during certain moments, and Deadpool 1 and 2 showcase the perfect balance between comedy and stakes (it doesn’t help that Deadpool and Wolverine are practically invisible).
The story is elevated by the characters — which is the most crucial part of any movie. Hugh Jackman is utter brilliance in every role he accompanies and this is no different. Any kind of character depth we see is usually through his performance when he’s not shirtless or giving us brutally exhilarating action. Any one would be lying if they said it’s not a thrill to see him back as Wolverine.
Director Shawn Levy knows exactly what he’s going for in regards to tone. The film has a rapid pace with a lot crammed inside a short runtime, but it somehow works.
Is it the best Marvel movie? No. Is it the best Deadpool movie? Maybe not. Is it damn good entertainment? Yes. Is it worthy of being experienced in a packed theatre full of excited Marvel fans? Absolutely.
Watch the trailer for ‘Deadpool And Wolverine’ below:
‘Deadpool And Wolverine’ releases July 25, 2024.
Our score: ★★★ ½
(out of 5 stars)
