by Jameson Butler
Feature Editor
Deadpool and Wolverine, released on 07/26/24, is an action/comedy film and the latest movie installment in the highly acclaimed Marvel Cinematic Universe. Directed by Shawn Levy, It has made over $1.14 billion in the box office, being one of the only Marvel films to receive over $1 billion, and being produced on a budget of around $200 million, it was an undeniable success.
This breathtaking adventure serves as a bittersweet farewell to several beloved and classic series such as the “X-Men” films and the “Fantastic Four” duology. Many exciting cameos appeared in this movie that solidify its place among the greats before it. In addition to this, it has even been speculated that Deadpool and Wolverine is Ryan Reynolds’ personal conclusion for the character. “I will only be doing Deadpool for the next two years,” Reynolds said. “That’s it. Just this one movie.” While the era of these movies may have already passed, Deadpool and Wolverine reminds viewers that the memories and the impact this franchise has made will stay with them for years to come.
Ryan Reynolds shines as Deadpool, delivering a masterclass in comedic timing while breaking the fourth wall in fresh and engaging ways. He embodies an infectious energy that perfectly captures the character’s irreverent nature. On the other hand, Hugh Jackman’s long-awaited return as Wolverine was a nostalgic surprise, and his classic portrayal of the character paired well with the relatively modern addition of Deadpool. He reprised his role with a gravitas and intensity that underscores the character’s inherent complexity, while bouncing off of Deadpool’s comedic side excellently.
The action sequences are well-executed, showcasing both Deadpool’s acrobatic prowess and Wolverine’s violent yet skillful fighting style. These sequences lend themselves well to the characters seen in them while not sacrificing the comedic elements of the film. The abilities of these heroes allow for captivating action scenes that cannot easily be found anywhere else.
One criticism to be found in the movie is simply how fast-paced it is. While this is not necessarily an issue in and of itself, it stops some arcs and events from being given the treatment they arguably deserved. For example, Wolverine’s more serious arc is often overshadowed by the movie’s desire to move onto the next action scene, which leads to the appearances of several darker moments throughout that are not expanded upon, leaving the audience wanting more.
The film effectively balances its over-the-top action sequences with witty dialogue and clever jokes sprinkled throughout. The plot, while bringing in several familiar faces, offers a new take on Marvel’s iconic characters. Visually stunning and masterfully written, “Deadpool and Wolverine” undoubtedly impacted the genre as a whole, making it a must-see for both fans of the characters and newcomers alike.