Recently, one had the impression that superheroes and their audiences had become very tired. Marvel – once a guarantee for huge profits – was no longer doing particularly well at the box office with its stories and in some cases the box office revenue fell short of expectations by several hundred million dollars. The comic characters were criticized as stereotypical and the stories as confusing.
Now, “Deadpool & Wolverine,” a Marvel blockbuster, is opening in cinemas today that is supposed to fix things. And they were lucky enough to bring two of the most popular characters together: co-screenwriter Ryan Reynolds as the anarchic Deadpool and Hugh Jackman, who is once again showing his claws as Wolverine. And as it turns out, neither of them are tired at all. In his latest, third film, Deadpool actually just wants to lead a quiet life. Until he learns that Mr. Paradox – Matthew Macfadyen (known as Mr. Darcy from “Pride and Prejudice” with Keira Knightley) – wants to wipe everyone out. But only Wolverine can save Deadpool. But he has to find him first. On a wild trip through parallel worlds, Deadpool first meets the dead Wolverines, then many living ones.
Grumpy and drunk
Deadpool is finally able to convince a particularly grumpy and usually drunk specimen to help him. Before the couple can face Mr. Paradox, however, they must first defeat another opponent: Cassandra Nova (Emma Corrin, “The Crown”). Directed by Shawn Levy (“Free Guy”, “Stranger Things”), the film is, as usual, peppered with brutal, often vulgar humor and entertaining action. There are also guest appearances that make fans’ hearts beat faster: Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan, Chris Evans as Johnny Storm, Jennifer Garner as Elektra and Reynolds’ wife Blake Lively as Lady Deadpool. The chemistry between the stars is definitely there. What also helps is that Reynolds and Jackman are friends in private and have a fun “bromance” that they share with their fans via social media.
That’s fitting: After all, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is also the story of a friendship. And the private “bromance” spark definitely jumps over: Yes, with “Deadpool & Wolverine” Marvel is having fun again. And above all because the film was clearly a lot of fun for the team. (apa/maf)
“Deadpool & Wolverine”: USA 2024, 127 Min., Regie: Shawn Levy, now in cinemas
OÖN rating: five out of six stars
