Movie Review -- Deadpool 2

  Has it really been two years since Deadpool took the world by storm and inadvertently convinced Marvel Studios to make all of their films the exact same laugh-fests à la Guardians of the Galaxy? Yup. Is the ultra-violent wisecracking Canadian mercenary still the best there is at what he does – like poking fun at Hugh Jackman? Yup.

  Deadpool 2 follows the titular merc with a mouth as he strives to protect a young mutant, Firefist, from Cable, an assassin from the future. This involves joining the X-Men, and later forming the X-Force. Hijinks ensue. Compared to the first Deadpool movie this one's story is a lot less standard and more imaginative. It goes in places you wouldn't expect, but just like the first one it also contains some tender moments. However the ending is just a little bit on the sappy side; without giving away too much I'll just say that Cable makes a particular decision that I find hard to believe.

  Deadpool's signature style of edgy, self-referential humour makes its grand return though in a slightly altered state. The sense of humour this time around is noticeably less crude and has more meta jokes. A couple jokes go on for just a tad too long and a few of the meta gags fall flat. But there's still tons of fun to be had with the references to other superhero films, the gratuitous gore, and the numerous and hilarious cameo appearances. The film's screwing with your expectations will leave you laughing out loud nine times out of ten.

  Ryan Reynolds pours on the charisma once again as Wade Wilson (AKA Deadpool) and all the previous film's oddball side characters are back such as Weasel, Blind Al, and Dopinder. It was also fun to watch Zazie Beetz in the role of Domino, a mutant who can manipulate luck. The villains of Deadpool 2 are way more interesting than those of the first Deadpool. Josh Brolin does an excellent job of bringing the hardened, no-nonsense Cable to life. Julian Dennison also does a fine job of portraying Firefist.

  As with its predecessor, this film boasts some outstanding fight choreography which is zealously showcased in slow motion. The special effects are also very well done... just not on Juggernaut though.

  So that's Deadpool 2, a fun superhero romp for the whole family. (Disclaimer: it's not for the whole family. Don't show this movie to young children.) If you were put off by the crass humour from the first Deadpool, don't be afraid to give this one a shot. With its wider range of characters, more interesting villains, and more creative story, Deadpool 2 is one of those rare sequels that's even better than its original.

  PS – There's no post-credits scene. Don't waste your time like I did.

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