Deadpool & Wolverine

R * 2024 ‧ Action/Comedy * 2h 7m

Written by  Shawn Levy, Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Zeb Wells. 

Directed by  Shawn Levy

THE CAST

 Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin and Matthew Macfadyen. 

THE STORY

(In their own words). Wolverine is recovering from his injuries when he crosses paths with the loudmouth, Deadpool. They team up to defeat a common enemy.

VIDEO REVIEW

AUDIO-ONLY REVIEW

THE BEST

The BEST things about the film

1. Compelling Storyline: Despite my gripes with Deadpool’s constant fourth-wall breaking, the plot itself is super engaging and kept me riveted.
2. Strong Performances: Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are terrific, as always. The entire cast, including Emma Corrin and Matthew Macfadyen, deliver strong performances.
3. Surprise Cameos: The unexpected guest appearances are a real treat and add a lot to the film’s enjoyment, especially for Marvel fans.
4. Great Action: The action scenes are well-executed with impressive stunts and special effects, making it a solid action-comedy.
5. Humor for the Fans: The film is packed with humor that Marvel and pop culture geeks will appreciate, even if it’s a bit much for me.

THE WORST

The WORST things about the Film

1. Constant Fourth-Wall Breaking: Deadpool’s non-stop breaking of the fourth wall is super annoying to me. It prevents me from fully investing in the story.
2. Dependence on Marvel Knowledge: The film assumes a lot of knowledge about the Marvel universe, particularly the TVA from the Loki series, which can leave some viewers lost.
3. Lack of Standalone Appeal: As part of a trilogy and a broader Marvel context, the film doesn’t stand well on its own. It requires too much background knowledge to fully appreciate.

THE COMMENTS

I found it funny that I initially thought the movie was titled “Deadpool vs. Wolverine.” Also, stay through the very end of the credits—it’s worth it for the final scene. And while the humor and cameos are a highlight, I still feel like the film’s over-reliance on jokes diminishes its emotional impact.

THE LESSON

1. Be Your Best for Yourself: The film emphasizes the importance of striving to be the best version of yourself, not just for others but for your own sense of fulfillment.
2. Embrace Who You Are: It’s a reminder to accept yourself as you are, with all your quirks and flaws, and still aim to do good in the world.
3. Fight for What’s Right: Like many superhero films, it underscores the theme of fighting for justice and helping others, regardless of how you’re perceived.

IS IT REWATCHABLE

Yes, but probably won’t. 

THE FINAL WORD

“Deadpool & Wolverine” delivers on its promise of a fun, action-packed adventure with strong performances from Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. The film’s humor and surprise cameos will delight Marvel fans, but its constant fourth-wall breaking and reliance on extensive Marvel knowledge can be off-putting. Despite these drawbacks, the compelling storyline and engaging characters make it a movie worth watching for any Marvel enthusiast.

THE VERDICT
My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It. 

I give “Deadpool & Wolverine” a “like it.” It’s not a must-see or a game-changer, but it’s an enjoyable ride, especially for fans of the Marvel universe. The film has its flaws, but the compelling story and strong performances make it worthwhile.

THE TRAILER