The final days of 20th Century Fox’s overseeing of their Marvel license was problematic. Their Fantastic Four reboot failed to launch. Daredevil was back at Marvel after a swing and a miss as a feature film. And the X-Men franchise was in a steep decline, both commercially and critically. But there was one bright spot: Deadpool.
It became the little franchise that could. It was a film that the studio didn’t even want. It only got made after test footage was released and drove fans into a frenzy. But it became a big hit, garnered a sequel and had fans asking for more. So, when Disney bought out Fox’s assets in 2019, it created an unusual situation. Fans want Marvel Studios to do the X-Men and Fantastic Four right, but wished Deadpool could come over just the way it is. And considering that Deadpool was a hot property it was natural that it would be one of the first Marvel Fox properties to come over. But how would the hard R-rated Deadpool fit in with the PG-13 Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Very well, actually.
By now, you should have read Rich’s review of the film. He tried to stay away from spoilers in his film. I will try as well, but some of the points I’d like to cover might come close to spoiler territory. Rich will be looking this over to keep me in line, but I don’t plan to go into any more detail than other reviewers or what the TV ads showed you. (Editor’s Note: I didn’t touch anything. – Rich)
The film opens with Wade (Ryan Reynolds) who has given up being Deadpool and joined the work force. However, the Time Variance Authority (from Loki) comes calling and offers Wade a chance to become Deadpool again. However, he soon learns this is a way to save just him as his reality is about to be destroyed. He finds out he needs a Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) to save it, as his reality is minus one Wolverine due the events of Logan. Deadpool is forced to search the multiverse for a replacement. He finds one that is mourning the loss of the X-Men, an event he blames himself for. The two take an immediate dislike to each other and must find some way to work together. Complicating matters is Cassandra Nova, Charles Xavier’s twin, who is a warlord in the Void at the End of Time (again Loki). Deadpool and Wolverine need her help to save Wade’s reality, but it turns out she has other plans.
I found myself asking myself if this is a good Deadpool film (not, however, if it was a good Wolverine movie. Because while Jackman’s Logan does have his moments, he takes a back seat for the most part in the film.) I answered, no…and yes.
No in the sense that this film is a tonal shift from the other two films. It is bigger, with a far wider range. However, this larger scope means that Deadpool’s supporting cast from the other films gets cast by the wayside. Some members get more screen time than others, but some don’t appear at all (but there are reasons for that) and I missed Deadpool’s interacting with them.
However, what make the film work is Deadpool’s ability to break the fourth wall and poke fun at his knowledge that he is a superhero movie character. That aspect is ramped up to 11 here, as the film becomes a meta commentary on pretty much everything to do with comic book films today: Disney buying Fox, celebrity gossip, casting rumors, failed comic book movies, comic book influences and so much more.
There is enough of this in the film, much of which leads to a whole bunch of cameos and fan service. So much so, that Cliff’s Notes should come out with one of their yellow books explaining all the references and commentary. But if you are in the know, the film becomes far more hilarious.
The acting is first rate, especially Jackman in his return as Wolverine. Back when Logan was released, Jackman said he felt he was getting too old for the role. This film proved him to be a liar. Like I said, the film’s scales tip in Deadpool’s favor, but Jackman makes the most of his screen time. I hope he comes back again.
But I want to especially point out Emma Corrin for praise. Their Cassandra Nova is a creepy and dangerous enemy for our heroes, and the actor performs their role with a confidence that belies their age. This might be a star making turn for Corrin. I look forward to seeing more of them.
I liked Deadpool And Wolverine a lot. Your enjoyment might vary, depending on what you bring into it. I’d recommend brushing up on Loki, Deadpool 1 & 2, and Logan at the very least before seeing the film. You might still like it without the homework, but it would be a better experience with it.
