Discussing Deadpool and Wolverine without hinting at spoilers is as risky as tightrope walking; it’s worthy of a circus act, given that the film itself is full of surprises. From the first minute to the post-credit scene, hardly any sequence can be mentioned without revealing something. However, I promise there will be no spoilers in this review—nothing, nada, que chi. It wouldn’t be fair to spoil the surprise and ruin the excitement of watching such a spectacle on the big screen. For comparison, it’s like what Sony did with Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021 by bringing together Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield, and Tom Holland, except Deadpool and Wolverine do it with more flair, humor, profanity, and most importantly, gore. While Deadpool and Wolverine may not advance the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), there is at least an acknowledgment of its continuity, which has been refreshing after Avengers: Endgame.
IT’S THE MERCATO!
The details regarding acquisitions and transfers of stables are outlined in the first 30 minutes of the film, interwoven with action scenes, flashbacks, and Deadpool’s voiceover, maintaining a perfectly controlled rhythm. This narrative invokes references to the TVA from the Loki series and utilizes Cable’s watch as seen in Deadpool 2. There are elements that may complicate your understanding of timelines and multiverses; however, it is important to note that Deadpool exists in his own time within the MCU’s Earth 616, while the X-Men film timeline corresponds to Earth-10005 from the Fox series. The objective is to unify everyone on Earth 616, which is considered the sacred timeline of the MCU. Another challenge with Deadpool’s case is that the first two episodes were well-received due to their violent, raw, and casual nature. However, Disney’s goal is to cater to a broader audience, including both adults and children, which does not align with Deadpool’s irreverent spirit as feared by fans.
Rest assured, the Rated-R (restricted to 17 and over in the US) rating has been maintained. Not only does this film maintain the spirit and violent elements of the original Deadpools, but Ryan Reynolds also takes it further by openly mocking Marvel and Disney. Both companies take these jabs so personally that it is entertaining to hear Deadpool and his alter ego Winston Wade insult Kevin Feige, critique the multiverse failures, and mock Disney’s strategy of exploiting successful franchises until they are drained. This is all done with a remarkable ease, involving the audience as well, since every time Deadpool breaks the fourth wall, he either winks at us or uses the camera to insult Fox. Truly, it is brilliant. Ryan Reynolds is undoubtedly the best fit for the role of Deadpool.
SAVE RYAN REYNOLDS AS SOLDIER
Now that we know the spirit of Deadpool has not been compromised in moving from Fox to Disney, the next question is how to integrate the X-Men into the MCU, and this could be where things get interesting. With Wolverine sharing the screen alongside Deadpool, it was initially thought that the introduction of the X-Men would come through the concept of the Multiverse. However, while they are indeed introduced in a way related to the Multiverse, it is not exactly as expected. I cannot reveal more without spoiling the film’s appeal. All I can say is that you will see mutants, but perhaps not those you were anticipating. Is this a flaw? Not necessarily, because Ryan Reynolds and director Shawn Levy have cleverly surprised us, making each situation a moment of pure delight and pleasure. You’ll laugh during the film, sometimes unexpectedly, as you witness unforeseen scenes. The film is filled with cameos, some minor and others significant, but you will undoubtedly applaud in the theater. This was at least the case during the press screening.
There are at least three cameo appearances that will likely surprise viewers, and one of the strengths of Deadpool films is that these cameos deliver what fans desire but then systematically subvert expectations with a counter-move. This was evident in Deadpool 2 with the X-Force team and similarly so with Deadpool & Wolverine. Is this film reaching the level of hype surrounding the three Spider-Men in No Way Home? Absolutely, particularly because the scene setting in Deadpool & Wolverine feels much more rewarding. We’re not just talking about legendary appearances in a staged kitchen set-up; there’s context here, and importantly, better-executed action. By the way, regarding CGI, it is significantly better controlled in Deadpool & Wolverine compared to the sometimes sloppy synthesis seen in No Way Home. Marvel has given its artisans ample time to work on this film, and that shows on screen.
WELCOME BACK
Given that Ryan Reynolds was born to play Deadpool, it is equally true that Hugh Jackman returns seven years after the excellent “Logan,” which provided the character with a fitting conclusion. For many viewers, including myself, bringing back Wolverine appeared risky following such a perfect ending. However, Ryan Reynolds and Shawn Levy have successfully reintroduced Wolverine to the screen through the concept of the Multiverse, implemented thoughtfully with humor that makes this unexpected return palatable and enjoyable. It is indeed a pleasure seeing Hugh Jackman in the iconic Wolverine costume once again. Perhaps this film allows him to embody several comic book Wolverines, though I will not reveal specifics. What I can say is that at 55 years old, Hugh Jackman proves himself as the Logan we have always wanted, regardless of his physical stature compared to the character’s depiction in comics. The film cleverly addresses and leverages this difference, making it a standout aspect of the movie.
However, it is unfortunate that the film does not go beyond its meta-discussion and the awareness of an MCU being influenced by its own executives. I would have liked to see the film delve deeper and officially integrate mutants, as seen with Hugh Jackman’s portrayal, but it is clear that true X-Men will be introduced differently, given Marvel’s likely casting of new actors. It is evident after this film that a new actor will portray the real MCU Logan, perhaps not yet found, but if the plan is to continue the MCU with the X-Men, Hugh Jackman cannot remain the official Logan. Each thing in its time, of course, but we would have liked more, even though the film successfully revives MCU hype. Now, other films and projects must match this quality; we need to address the Multiverse issue, make the Fantastic Four a central force for future phases, and see Reed Richards become the new leader of the Avengers. We’ve lost Iron Man and Robert Downey Jr., but Pedro Pascal has taken on a leading role. Whether this change is a gain or loss remains to be seen… In any case, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is undoubtedly one of the best MCU films since “Endgame,” and it’s refreshing to see Kevin Feige rectify five years of stagnation and superhero fatigue.
