Directed by Shawn Levy. The film stars Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Aaron Stanford, and Matthew Macfayden.
While the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been at its peak, a resounding success, Fox’s Marvel universe between 2000 and 2018 was far more of an up-and-down roller coaster. Perhaps its highest points are the Deadpool and X-Men films, particularly Logan, Hugh Jackman’s swansong in the role. Deadpool’s entry into the MCU sees him finally team up with Wolverine in a highly anticipated crossover. Fans might be concerned whether Deadpool would be diluted under Disney and whether Logan (arguably the finest live-action summit for the character) would have its legacy tarnished. It’s safe to say this is still the merc with the mouth that fans have come to love over the past decade.
On directorial duty, this time, is Reynold’s frequent collaborator, Shawn Levy (Free Guy, Night at The Museum). At the same time, he may not have the action credentials of Tim Miller or David Leitch, but the balance of the previous films remains intact, and high-octane, incredibly over-the-top action, gross-out humour and fourth wall breaks. Given this technically falls within the MCU, it is perhaps surprising how heavily the themes, plot and homages reference the Fox films; not to spoil any particular details, fans of those films will delight in the subtle and not-so-subtle nods, making this an epitaph of sorts.
Jackman and Reynolds are both now most commonly associated with these two Marvel characters, and it is a miracle in some ways that this team-up happened at all. While it may not be the best film to feature either character, there is a huge sense of fun seeing a more comic-accurate and foul-mouthed take on Logan and his contrast with Deadpool as the duo are forced to team up in an apocalyptic wasteland with the fate of the world at stake, set to a mostly 80s soundtrack.
Audiences’ mileage may depend on how much they connect with the Deadpool films and Reynolds’ and Deadpool’s brand of humour, but comic fans and fans of the films referenced will likely find plenty to admire. The humour may not always land, but with gags this fast, some will stick. The violence can be excessive, but it wouldn’t be a Deadpool film without it.
While it may have its flaws, there is plenty to admire in Deadpool and Wolverine, thankfully keeping the balance from the previous films for his first MCU appearance. It is always welcome to see Jackman in the role of Logan. Whether or not this ends up being his last appearance, it keeps the legacy of his previous roles intact. It looks sure to dig its claws into the summer box office and makes a fitting send-off for the previous era of Marvel films.
