This entire film hinges on whether or not Ryan Reynolds can make an invincible psychopath both entertaining and likable. Fortunately, the gamble pays off with Reynolds, seeming like he was born to play the role. Those who are hoping for non-stop gun and katana action flick will be disappointed, however, as there only two fight scenes. The scenes are engaging and well-choreographed, but their scarcity shows a focus on character development. The film benefits from a great cast of zany characters who balance each other out in an successful ensemble. That being said, director Tim Miller lets Tarantino know he’s not the only film-maker who can effectively use gratuitous gut-churning violence.
This film is an origin story, as we learn how Deadpool came to look like “an avocado who had sex with an older uglier avocado,” as Silicon Valley’s T.J. Miller so eloquently puts it. In this day and age, the phrase “origin story” brings to many a shiver of dread. Since Batman Begins (2005), there has been a repetitive onslaught of these films, all of which touch on similar plot points. Also, yes, it really has been over a decade since that Batman Begins. Deadpool avoids this cliché by jumping between a retrospective narrative of a time before Deadpool and his present-day self as Deadpool. These well-timed cuts keep the pace of the film high.
The most apparent and unique part of this film, however, is Deadpool’s consistent breaking of the fourth wall. The audience is regularly addressed by Deadpool throughout the film, establishing a personal bond with the psychopath. Through this bond, the audience is exposed to a barrage of F-bombs, masturbation jokes, and other humor interchangeable with that of Superbad (2007). Albeit juvenile at some times, Deadpool is a must watch for those not repulsed by violence.
Grade: A-
