“From the studio that inexplicably sewed his f*cking mouth shut the first time, comes… me!“- Deadpool
After years of campaigning by Ryan Reynolds, the world has finally been graced by the appearance of the foulmouthed, fourth-wall breaking antihero that is Deadpool.
Directed by Tim Miller – in what is his feature film debut – and starring Ryan Reynolds as the opening credits put it ‘Titular Hero’, Deadpool has totally transcended the superhero genre’s strict PG-13 philosophies; with f*ck this and sh*t that ever present throughout the film’s 1 hour 48 minutes running time. It’s a shock that Deadpool only received a 15 rating in UK cinemas, with subsequent R-ratings in the USA and even a total ban in China.
Bringing the Comic To Life; Properly This Time.
After Pool’s/Reynolds’ self-proclaimed “career low” in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, it is thoroughly refreshing to see the authentic “Merc with a Mouth” brought to the big screen. Deadpool’s self-awareness – i.e. knowing that he is a comic book hero – is arguably his greatest trait — the world is his audience and Deadpool thrives off of his own psychopathy and humour. Reynolds brought every aspect of Deadpool’s charm to this movie: the crude jokes, his spectacular love of violence but most importantly; his ability to tell a story. The viewer becomes so immersed in Deadpool’s own little world that it is impossible to take their eyes off the screen, it’s like an addiction, and there is simply a need for more and more Deadpool. It’s safe to say that Reynolds has really done justice in bringing everyone’s favourite anti-hero to life.
No Need for A Plot, the Gags Do All the Work.
The film begins with Deadpool tracking a man named Francis, later revealed to be the villain Ajax (Ed Skrein), the man who made Deadpool: “totally indestructible… and completely unfuckable.” As Deadpool does battle with several truckloads of bad-guys, armed only with his two swords and a gun with 12 bullets, the merc begins to tell the viewer his story through sequences of flashbacks. The plot is certainly lacking in substance and is clearly reminiscent of an origin story, as well as certain moments of cliche superhero moments (mainly the love story) which unfortunately drag the film back towards it’s own genre. However; the hilarity of the script and excellent action scenes more than make up for it.
Generally speaking though; it’s the gags that make this film, as they distract the viewer from a plot so poorly intertwined and provide constant comic relief from the serious undertones of the story. The hilarity of this film begins with the opening credits and ends with an excellent post-credits scene (stay seated for that!).
The Verdict.
It’s become clear from Deadpool’s excellent PR team that this film was destined for comedy greatness; and it is a feat that Reynolds, Miller and co. have certainly achieved. The true humorous and cynical nature of Mr. Pool himself has finally been successfully translated to the silver screen. Despite a lack of a convincing plot, Deadpool is a must watch for any Marvel fan, any fans of music ranging from DMX to Wham! and for anyone who enjoys a romantic comedy with just a pinch of guns, knives and explosions; just don’t forget your Hello Kitty backpacks and Chimichangas.
Rating: 8/10
Words by Elliott Jones