Deadpool 2 (2018) – David Leitch

Deadpool 2 is an exuberant, humorous film with unapologetically bold choices, similar to the first Deadpool (2016). Tim Miller was set to direct the sequel, having directed the first one, but due to creative differences with Ryan Reynolds he quit and David Leitch took over. I was interested to see how the change in director would alter the feel of the second film, but found that the same type of brazen humour was present. Nonetheless, there are many surprises in the film and unexpected plot choices that made me appreciate the effort they had put in to try and make this film dissimilar from the framework many sequels fall into. Although it does have some predictable elements, and does adhere to some common movie tropes, it’s clear that the film is trying to divert expectations.

The action sequences are well choreographed, as to be expected from David Leitch, with his history of working on spectacular fight scenes in films like John Wick (2014) and Atomic Blonde (2017), as well as having done some stunt work himself in his career. As anticipated with the R-rating there is again, as there is in the first film, a lot of gore and violent scenes in which Deadpool’s character, (with his regenerative healing abilities), is mutilated for comedic effect.

Although primarily a comedy, Deadpool 2 does have more emotional beats than I was expecting and in creating this second instalment it is clear that the creative team were aiming to create a layered tapestry. This is evident in their ambitious plot, which is much more busy than the first film. The film’s pacing is very snappy, as it bolts through scenes quite quickly to get through the dense storyline. But, the film also slows down for comedic moments that I feel perhaps dragged on a little too long.

The film is packed with Easter eggs and references, and while some of them went over my head, the ones I did understand that hinted at the MCU, Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool from X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009), his Green Lantern (2011), the DC Universe, and many more, are very entertaining to watch. While I have enjoyed both Deadpool films thus far, and I appreciate the fresh take the fourth wall breaking Deadpool delivers, some of the jokes are just not to my taste. Yet, as there is a continual stream of one-liners, it means that some of the jokes do work effectively and will make you laugh, if not, at least put a smile on your face.

Josh Brolin did a great job in the role of Cable, as did Zazie Beetz in the role of Domino. I was particularly impressed with Julian Dennison’s portrayal of Russell/ Firefist, as his character felt fresh and I liked his humour and range. There are some wonderful cameos sprinkled in the film that are perfectly placed and hilarious appearances from unexpected actors. These scenes flashed by so quickly that you almost could not fully comprehend the moment, so watching the film again will definitely be a fun experience to take more notice of these instances. Likewise, the post credit scenes are fantastic.

Deadpool 2 made for an enjoyable watch. There are elements that I found to be too absurd and some choices that did not feel justified or logical, but overall it was a fun movie that had a clear theme of family threaded throughout. The film has made me curious about the direction they are going to take X-Force in, and I am looking forward to the future of the franchise.