Movie Review: Deadpool and Wolverine Earns Five Stars

As a long-time Marvel fan, I was eagerly anticipating Deadpool and Wolverine. With the deluge of Marvel movies over the past few years, it's refreshing to have a single, standout entry this year. Surprisingly, I've missed the cinematic Marvel Universe, and this film felt like a much-needed reunion.

Courtesy Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

The marketing leaned heavily into the joke that Deadpool is "Marvel Jesus," here to save the franchise, a reference many have seen in the trailers. This isn't just a clever tagline; it's the first R-rated film under the Disney/Marvel banner, and it has smashed box office records-deservedly so.

Deadpool and Wolverine is unmistakably a Ryan Reynolds's project. He stars in it, co-wrote it, and his unique comedic voice is palpable throughout, despite Shawn Levy being at the helm as director. Reynolds's irreverent humor permeates the film, making it a quintessential Deadpool experience.

Hugh Jackman reprises his iconic role as Wolverine, bringing a delightful contrast to Reynolds's antics. The chemistry between the two is electric, adding layers of enjoyment to the film.

The movie is hilarious, delivering non-stop laughs. While some critics argue that the plot is flimsy and lacks emotional depth, these aspects aren't the film's primary focus. Instead, it's all about Reynolds's self-aware, comedic take on the superhero genre.

The storyline follows Deadpool teaming up with an alternate universe Wolverine to stop a rogue Time Variance Authority (TVA) agent threatening his timeline. The plot serves as a thin framework for the real highlight: the meta-commentary on the Disney-Fox merger. This film serves as a nostalgic farewell to the Fox-era superhero movies, acknowledging that future X-Men and Fantastic Four projects will be rebooted under the Disney umbrella. A particularly notable moment is the depiction of the 20th Century Fox monument buried in the void-a humorous yet fitting metaphor for the end of an era.

You don't need an encyclopedic knowledge of Marvel history to enjoy the film, but it certainly enhances the experience. The movie is peppered with cameos, including a standout appearance by Wesley Snipes as Blade. There's a clever meta-joke where Deadpool breaks the fourth wall, hinting at the upcoming *Blade* reboot, which was funny.

Jackman's performance as Wolverine is as robust as ever. He brings a subtle distinction to the character, reminding audiences that this isn't the same Wolverine from Logan. Seeing him don a more traditional comic book costume will thrill fans.

One of the movie's funniest moments is Deadpool joking about Wolverine playing the character until he's 90-a likely scenario given Jackman's long tenure in the role.

The film features some spectacular fight scenes, a highlight being the long-anticipated showdown between Deadpool and Wolverine. Fans have waited years for this, and the film delivers. The climactic battle, featuring multiple Deadpools from various universes, set to Madonna's "Like a Prayer," is both absurd and hilariously entertaining.

Deadpool and Wolverine is a riotous, entertaining romp that skewers the Marvel universe with sharp wit. Whether you're a die-hard Marvel fan or just looking for a good laugh, this film is a must-see.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Deadpool and Wolverine is now screening at Regal Cinemas at the Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales.

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