‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Review: A Snikt-sational Showing for the MCU

The following Deadpool & Wolverine review is spoiler-free.

In the year 2000, X-Men birthed a comic book movie franchise that gave the world unforgettable moments and iconic performances that have become a staple in pop culture. Little did audiences know this would be the start of a cinematic journey spanning over two decades with 13 films. While not every movie in the series is a home run, what’s universally accepted are Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine and Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson/Deadpool.

These actors have become synonymous with their roles by consistently adding depth to their characters and displaying engaging performances that feel ripped from a comic book but with a sense of realism. While X-Men Origins: Wolverine isn’t one of the critically acclaimed films of the franchise, the chemistry between Jackman and Reynolds was a spark that would light the flame to Deadpool & Wolverine.

Under the watchful eye of Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, the directorial effort of Shawn Levy, and the writing expertise of Levy, Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Zeb Wells, Deadpool & Wolverine is everything fans have been waiting for and even more. Even with the backdrop of the multiverse, it tells a surprisingly personal story that’ll make audiences laugh, cry, and fill a void in their heart.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Is an R-rated Riot

With Logan, Deadpool, and Deadpool 2 getting the R-rated treatment, it’s hard to imagine what Deadpool & Wolverine would be like without it. Given the titular characters’ traits of channeling their aggression through intense fights, it makes sense that nothing is held back in this film. Levy proves he can craft epic action sequences worthy of an Avengers film in Deadpool & Wolverine. He pushes the boundaries of typical superhero action and demonstrates that the film’s R-rating is more than just a formality, but a badge of honor that reflects just how unapologetically violent a movie can be.

It’s shocking to see what the fight choreographers, stunt and VFX teams manage to pull off in the film. Whether you watch this in theaters or at home, you will feel like you’re part of the action through the creative camerawork. From Netflix’s Daredevil to James Gunn‘s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Marvel properties have shown their capability to design impressive fights with one long take, and Deadpool & Wolverine is no different. It’s certain to have audiences applauding all the action set pieces.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Features an X-tremely Talented Cast

On paper, it sounds daunting to be the antagonist against X-Men veterans Jackman and Reynolds, but Emma Corrin exhibits their award-winning expertise from The Crown as Cassandra Nova in Deadpool & Wolverine. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough time given to Cassandra Nova to leave a huge mark compared to other MCU villains, but every scene they are in is chilling. Coming off of Succession, Matthew Macfadyen also proves why he’s an award-winning actor as he taps into an area of emotions he didn’t get to show through Tom Wambsgans. Corrin and Macfadyen’s performances help carry this film.

Fans were reasonably worried Jackman wouldn’t be able to top his impassioned performance in Logan, but he continues to peel back Wolverine’s layers with another heart-wrenching display of emotions in Deadpool & Wolverine. Since Jackman was snubbed at the Oscars for Logan, it’s unfortunate that he may not receive accolades for his touching performance in this film.

The chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman is undeniably incredible. The way they bounce off one another is instant, blurring the lines between acting and pure friendship. The Deadpool films have always been emotional at their core with Wade Wilson’s journey. Similar to Robert Downey Jr.‘s Tony Stark, Reynolds’ Deadpool has a strong character arc throughout his appearances. The film’s themes of finding family and purpose in life will deeply resonate with audiences.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Exceeds Every Expectation

It feels as though every MCU movie since Avengers: Endgame has promised the universe will never be the same again, but Deadpool & Wolverine might just be the one to live up to that notion. Seeing how this film handles the multiversal storyline, some key pieces of information could heavily tie into Avengers: Secret Wars.

But as the third Deadpool film or the fourth Wolverine-focused flick, Deadpool & Wolverine tells a complete story for both characters. Reynolds and Jackman are at the top of their game with their performances, but they’re sure to go even higher if they do reprise these roles. It’s highly recommended to see this on the big screen as Levy delivers pulse-pounding action that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat for the entirety of the film.

Deadpool & Wolverine arrives in theaters on July 26. Follow the Agents of Fandom socials for all the latest entertainment news and reviews.