Ryan Reynolds’ “Deadpool & Wolverine” Isn’t for Kids
Ryan Reynolds has once again captured headlines with his latest film, Deadpool & Wolverine. In a recent interview with the New York Times, Reynolds mentioned that his nine-year-old daughter and his mother both watched and enjoyed the movie. While this anecdote showcases Reynolds’ family cohesion, it raises some eyebrows among the true fans of the franchise. Let’s be real—Deadpool & Wolverine is not for children or the faint-hearted. It’s designed for the die-hard fans who have followed the superhero genre through its many ups and downs over the past decade.
The film is a treat for those who have been immersed in the comic book-inspired cinematic world, from the Avengers and X-Men to the Dark Knight. These are the fans who fondly remember the peak of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the emotional rollercoaster of Avengers: Endgame. However, in 2024, being a fan of superhero movies can feel like a state of arrested development. The escapism and excitement are still there, but the flaws in the genre are more apparent than ever.
This is where Deadpool & Wolverine comes in as a timely satire. The film serves as a roast of the MCU, offering a refreshing take on the superhero genre that fans so richly deserve. If the sight of Hugh Jackman donning Wolverine’s iconic yellow and blue X-Men suit gives you chills, then this film is for you. If you can distinguish between the various iterations of The Fantastic Four and still have a soft spot for Ioan Gruffudd’s version, then this film is definitely for you.
Entering the third installment of the Deadpool franchise, there were concerns that Reynolds’ signature potty-mouthed humor might have run its course. However, by directing his sharp wit at the waning MCU, Reynolds and his writers have created a film that is both a love letter to fans and a critical commentary on the genre. The movie acknowledges the absurdity, the arbitrary rules, and the unmanageable continuity of the MCU, inviting fans to enjoy a 127-minute escapade filled with familiar faces and chaotic fun.
The film begins with Wade Wilson at a low point, having retired his Deadpool persona and settling into a mundane job while yearning for something more. His life takes an unexpected turn with the intervention of the Time Variance Authority, a nod to the Loki series on Disney+. This setup provides the “Merc with the Mouth” with the perfect opportunity to dive back into the action.
To truly appreciate Deadpool & Wolverine, one must have experienced the highs and lows of comic book dramas over the years. Casual viewers might enjoy the basic premise of a superhero seeking purpose and fighting the big bad, but the film’s deeper layers and references are aimed at those who have lived through the evolution of the genre.
Reynolds’ latest venture is more than just another superhero film. It’s a celebration of and a commentary on the genre that has captivated audiences for years. By blending nostalgia with sharp humor, Deadpool & Wolverine promises to deliver the giddy bliss that fans have been longing for, even as it pokes fun at the very world it inhabits. So, while Reynolds’ family might have enjoyed the film, it’s clear that Deadpool & Wolverine is a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated fans of superhero cinema.
