By Allegra Papera
Staff Writer
Beloved Marvel anti-hero, Deadpool, walks audiences through his whirlwind of a search for his own kind of justice, using his quick wit, ruthlessness and mutant powers.
The eighth installment of Marvel’s X-Men film series, “Deadpool” takes its own spin on a superhero story with its accurate portrayal of the complex anti-hero, priceless sense of humor, and unique plot, combining action scenes with heartfelt moments.
“Deadpool” follows Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), a former Special Forces member turned mercenary providing the service of assassination or threatening in return for pay. The troubled character meets the equally scarred prostitute, Vanessa Carlysle (Morena Baccarin), finding happiness with her until he is diagnosed with late-stage cancer.
Driven to stay alive for the sake of his newfound love, Wilson agrees to undergo a never-before-tried procedure to cure his cancer while providing him with abnormal powers. Ajax (Ed Skrein) performs the procedure, curing Wilson’s cancer and giving him an accelerated healing factor, while purposefully causing disfiguration, stripping him of his good looks.
The film’s plot is refreshing as it strays away from typical superhero films, since Deadpool seeks revenge for the sake of his own happiness rather than to salvage anybody else. The character himself even remarks “I may be super, but I am no hero”, clearly reminding viewers that, unlike some characters with special abilities, his powers and strengths are to be used for his self-serving agenda.
Ryan Reynold’s impressive performance accurately captures Deadpool’s quirkiness as he is portrayed in his comic book series. Known for his tendency to break the fourth wall, Deadpool often speaks directly to the audience. This important aspect of the character is smoothly incorporated into the film with his snarky comments or opinions, convincingly bringing Deadpool to life.
In addition, Deadpool’s both crude and clever sense of humor is quite possibly the film’s strongest feature. While he often cracks obscene jokes, Deadpool also displays his wittiness by referencing to the creation of the movie itself, as he is aware that he is a fictional character. Audiences will find themselves laughing at all of many jokes woven throughout the script.
While Deadpool’s character traits play a major role in the film, so do its polished action scenes. When faced by a threat, he makes the most of his abilities to destroy them. At the story’s initial action scene, Deadpool eliminates multiple cars full of his enemies, using no more than twelve bullets, his swords, and his fists. His accelerated healing factor often entertains throughout these scenes, as he shocks his opponents with his ability to survive seemingly fatal wounds and injuries.
However impressive, “Deadpool” lacks strong development of any character aside from its Wade Wilson/Deadpool. Focusing in on the main character successfully strengthens and familiarizes his personality with audiences, but takes away potential depth from supporting roles.
Overall, “Deadpool” lives up to the hype created anticipating its release, capturing all that makes this cult favorite anti-hero memorable, from his taboo sense of humor to his impressive fighting skills earned from his rough past.
“Deadpool” is rated R and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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