‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ is, so far, the only Marvel film to hit movie theatres this year. (Marvel Studios pic)
Ever since the announcement in 2022 that two beloved Marvel characters, Deadpool and Wolverine, would be teaming up, the hype and anticipation have been off the charts.
Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool, and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine shared the screen in “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” in 2009, but fans were not pleased. That version of Ryan Reynolds’ character had his mouth sewn shut, meaning we didn’t get to see the duo’s dynamic play out.
Now, though, there’s a lot more at stake. Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox in 2019 officially brought Deadpool into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
It’s no secret that the MCU has been struggling to regain its momentum since “Avengers: Endgame” (with the exception, perhaps, of “Spider-Man: No Way Home” in 2021). Which is why all eyes are on “Deadpool & Wolverine”, the studio’s first R-rated film, and the only release from Marvel Studios so far this year.
Now, if you couldn’t care less about behind-the-scenes politics, the good news is that “Deadpool & Wolverine” is an absolute blast! Director Shawn Levy, known for his comedy hits like “Night At The Museum” and “Free Guy”, nails it once again.
The trademark comedy and over-the-top violence of the franchise make a welcome return. (Marvel Studios pic)
Co-lead, co-writer and co-producer Reynolds delivers his signature sarcastic one-liners non-stop, even during the most intense or grim moments.
Despite having joined Disney, the Canadian doesn’t pull any punches: he loves breaking the fourth wall with pop-culture references, including nods to Will Smith’s famed Oscars moment, mentions of his wife Blake Lively, and playful jabs at Marvel’s dropped standards.
The trademark over-the-top violence of the franchise is pushed to new extremes, ensuring plenty of jaw-dropping moments. Limbs and heads go flying, crotch kicks land hard, and blood splatters in every direction.
Officially merging with the MCU, the film dives deeper into the multiverse, opening up endless possibilities for crossovers and new character introductions. So, it’s no surprise that Wolverine, despite his death in 2017’s “Logan”, makes a return through the multiverse.
Now, as for the actual plot… actually, it isn’t mind blowing lah.
Once more, Ryan Reynolds steps into the shoes of Wade Wilson, a superhero struggling with self-esteem. (Marvel Studios pic)
Deadpool, now Wade Wilson, lives a mundane life as a depressed car dealer after breaking up with Vanessa Carlysle and being rejected from joining the Avengers.
Things take a turn when he is captured by the Time Variance Authority and is brought before Mr Paradox, the antagonist who wants him to lead a secret project to mercy-kill his already fading universe, while offering him a chance to live in another.
Driven by his love for his friends and a desire to win back Vanessa, Wade steps up to save his timeline. The catch? Wolverine is the key to doing that.
It’s all fun and games until the duo enters the Void, ruled by the terrifying villain Cassandra Nova, the bald twin sister of Charles Xavier, portrayed by Emma Corrin. Still following?
From this point on, it’s a race against time to escape the Void, with some classic “X-Men” characters making an appearance to help. No spoilers, but there’s one surprise cameo that will definitely knock your socks off!
And Wolverine, too, makes his big screen comeback, thanks to the multiverse. (Marvel Studios pic)
Sure, the core plot isn’t entirely unpredictable, but let’s face it – that’s not why you bought your tickets.
If you’re here for a Deadpool and Wolverine showdown – battling each other while teaming up to take down the bad guy – you won’t be disappointed. Wolverine fans are in for a treat with several slow-motion and shirt-ripping sequences showcasing his impressive abs.
Jackman’s Logan serves as a stark contrast to Deadpool throughout the film: grim and unable to crack a smile, even as Deadpool’s incessant jokes drive him up the wall.
And what’s a superhero without an insecurity complex, right? Both Wade and Logan grapple with their inner demons, which drive the entire storyline.
So grab your friends and head to the cinema: the third instalment of the “Deadpool” franchise has the potential to be the biggest blockbuster of the year. And as Deadpool dubs himself in the movie, maybe he really is “Marvel Jesus”.
As of press time, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ is screening in cinemas nationwide.