Deadpool (Review) - Funny, Though Foreseeable

Deadpool is an undoubtedly funny movie. The trailers were funny, the marketing campaign was funny, and Ryan Reynolds is a funny guy. In fact, the movie itself rides heavily on audiences finding it funny, because if you take a glimpse past the humorous surface, then you'll find a movie that's okay, if a little bit formulaic. 

Like all first instalments to a new character, the film is essentially an origin story. Told in a non-linear fashion that skips back and forwards, we see the transformation of freelance merc Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) from a thuggish anti-hero into the foul-mouthed, wise-cracking, titular 'merc with a mouth' plastered all over the posters: Deadpool. Of course, a hero is nothing without a villain, and in Deadpool this role is filled by generic enemy 'Ajax' (Ed Skrein) - a stereotypically British antagonist who almost seems like a budget Jason Statham. From here, the film is almost surprisingly straightforward; Wade Wilson must track down Ajax, and get revenge for wronging him. 

Something that will undoubtedly surprise those unfamiliar with the character of Deadpool is the way in which the film is presented to the audience. Frequently throughout, Deadpool himself will talk to the audience - commonly known as 'breaking the fourth wall' - and reference himself as well as other movies within the superhero genre. If you're a big fan of Marvel or Fox movies like The Avengers or The X-Men, then these references will no doubt have you chuckling at every turn. If you go in without prior knowledge, however, then it's possible that Deadpool's brand of humour might go over your head, and lead to a lesser experience. Even if you do 'get' all of the cameos and remarks, you still might find yourself silent at moments, as not every one-liner hits as hard as the film might want it to. The rate these jokes come at means it isn't a huge issue when one misses, though. 

One thing that definitely doesn't fall flat, is Ryan Reynolds as the leading hero. The thing is, while this is technically an original story that tracks the change from Wade Wilson to Deadpool, the character never really changes at all. Wade Wilson is just as sarcastic and referential before he dons the red suit; all that's upped is the violence he inflicts. This means that what could have quite easily been a boring opening half to the film is instead just as entertaining as the latter segments, and Wade's constant narration throughout makes this a seamless transition. 

Conversely, the villain of Ajax is incredibly boring. I know this is kind of the point, as even the opening titles label him simply "A British Villain", but the satirical nature of his lacking personality is lost when he has no redeemable factors. Sure, it makes for a funny introduction segment, but after this you're left with a hollow character who honestly drags the movie down with how forgettable he is. 

The best thing about Deadpool isn't necessarily within the film itself. No, the best part is that it got made - especially when placed in the sea of factory-produced superhero films that are quickly becoming stale. It's genuinely refreshing to get a colourful superhero movie that has a 15 certificate...and earns it. Limbs are torn off, nudity is prevalent, and the eponymous star swears at every opportunity. If anything, the chance to make this a truly unique film compared to all the others was slightly squandered in making it a straight-up origin story. Too much time is dedicated to introducing us to Wade, as his alter-ego Deadpool is where the film really shines. Hopefully this will be remedied in the now-confirmed sequel - only time will tell. 

Verdict
While not a perfect movie by any means, Deadpool still proves to be thoroughly entertaining and genuinely funny at parts. It's an exciting glimpse into what superhero movies can be, which is refreshing, as they're beginning to grow stagnant. It might not be as clever as it thinks when it comes to wasted roles like the villain Ajax, but Ryan Reynolds manages to carry the movie single-handedly above that 'average' grading. Grab some buddies, and enjoy a funny, mindless trip to the cinema. 

"I love you, Wade Wilson. We can fight this" 

"You're right. Cancer's only in my liver, lungs, prostate and brain. All things I can live without"