[Review] Deadpool 2

Deadpool snaps back again with all his quippy, slashing, foul-mouthed glory(hole) in Deadpool 2. Aren't you a little surprised that they didn't come up with a more creative title? Anyway, this sequel might not pop with the initial freshness of the first one, but it's still a worthy entry to this series, sliding in with that acidic brand of scene-busting irreverence, while continuing Deadpool's story in an entertaining and surprisingly meaningful way. In some aspects, it's actually better than the first one.

Following a shocking tragedy, a jail stint, and another hysterically snarky opening credits sequence, Deadpool finds himself in a sticky situation where he needs to save a young fiery mutant (played by the enthusiastic Julian Dennison, who made an impressive breakthrough in Taika Waititi's Hunt for the Wilderpeople) from the mechanical arm grasp of Cable (Josh Brolin, he's great here), who's a time-travelling soldier from the future. The plot also sees the return of Deadpool's mutant buddies Colossus (Stefan Kapicic) and Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), as well as the introduction of newcomer Domino (Zazie Beetz).

Just like its predecessor, Deadpool 2 rolls with fourth-wall-breaking punches and self-reflexive jabs. Some love this, others loathe it, but I thought most of the jokes landed. And the writers seem to know when to pull back enough, so it isn't too overdone. And when the script isn't relishing in meta humor, it unleashes the toilet humor, which is also funny. But the film might be best when it dives into the nitty gritty of things. Director David Leitch, who has helmed films like the excellent John Wick and Atomic Blonde, brings some sharp action sequences and visceral fights.

And one of the most interesting aspects about the Deadpool cinematic franchise and why I believe it works so well is its own set of extreme contradictions. It's shamelessly jocular and even childish at times, but it also never shies away from delving into darker, more serious territory. And Deadpool himself -- scarred exterior and all -- puts on a front as this detached and degenerate character, but when it comes down to it, the guy's heart practically bursts through his suit, especially when considering the tight-knit relationships he forms with those around him. After all, Deadpool says this is a "Family film." And he isn't totally wrong.

( 8/10 )

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