Deadpool & Wolverine a total blast

The second half of the year has gotten off to a tremendous start as July has given us some incredible and varied films. But it’s possible the month saved the best for last as the biggest release of the summer, Deadpool & Wolverine, droped on Friday.

It’s been a different year for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. After some critical failures in 2023 and a re-shuffling of the deck for films and shows to come, the weight of the cinematic universe is being carried by a couple long-time heroes that are new entries to this world. A few years back Disney purchased 20th Century Fox, and with it came the X-Men, the Fantastic Four, and the most unlikely of Disney heroes, Deadpool.

Through two films, Ryan Reynolds showcased not only his talent but his ability to create a different kind of superhero. Deadpool and his films are violent and crass, but also a lot of fun. The question was what an MCU version of the hero—paired with Hugh Jackman’s iconic Wolverine—would bring to the table. It turns out, they bring quite a lot.

In the film, Deadpool (Reynolds) is brought into the loop by the Time Variant Authority, specifically the agent Mr. Paradox (Matthew Macfayden). Turns out his universe is in trouble, so Deadpool springs to action to get it fixed. To do that, he travels through space and time to recruit Logan (Jackman). Turns out, this version of Logan his is own issues to work out. Can they come together and stop time from getting away?

The plot and the special guests in this film have been kept under tight wraps, and I won’t spoil that here. The final trailer does enough to spoil a few but trust me there is more to see in this film, which serves as an extravaganza, introducing these characters to the MCU, introducing new MCU players, and serving as a celebration to the FOX era of making these Marvel films. And it is a blast in every possible way.

Five writers contributed to the script—including Reynolds and director Shawn Levy—and it works wonders. There’s so much humor, so many over-the-top moments, and so many great pop culture references and references to the MCU in general. The choice of music works well, too. There are some great needle drop moments that elicit laughs of amp up the action.

The is an R-rated film that doesn’t pull any punches, making it a deviation from what’s come before in the MCU. The action sequences are bloody and violent, delivering some moments and clashes that will surprise and entertain. And the film makes quick work of its two-hour run time, moving at a good pace that holds your attention.

There is also a mid-credits sequence and post-credits scene that are worth your time to check out. Overall, this is a summer blockbuster that delivers. It’s the shot in the arm that the MCU, and Marvel fans, have been waiting for and well worth checking out in theaters this weekend. I loved it; it’s one of my favorites of the summer and favorites of the year.

Deadpool & Wolverine is rated R for strong bloody violence and language throughout, gore and sexual references.

Four and a half stars out of five