The introduction of multiverses in recent superhero storylines can often feel uninspired and like lazy storytelling. The MCU’s focus on the multiverse came after Tony Stark’s staggering sacrifice to save the world from Thanos, leaving perhaps nothing else as emotionally resonant since then. In fact, the MCU has been on a decline as Disney has tried to create synergy between theatrical movies and streaming programming on Disney+. With the MCU brand becoming increasingly diluted (much like Star Wars) due to a hyper-focus on this corporate synergy, it was time to reset—go back in time—and recalibrate the universe with an anchor character that die-hard MCU fans can obsess over and casual audiences would be motivated to see.

With a stable of mainstream comic characters to choose from, Disney’s decision to finally bring Deadpool and Wolverine together properly in R-Rated form is wholeheartedly welcomed. Correcting the wrongs of Gavin Hood’s Wolverine: X-Men Origins (2009), the MCU properly injects itself with the DNA of Ryan Reynolds’ Wade Wilson (Deadpool) and Hugh Jackman’s Logan (Wolverine), who, like in the original X-Men (2000) directed by Bryan Singer for 20th Century Fox, brings a sense of pathos to the comic-inspired proceedings.

Deadpool and Wolverine isn’t just another superhero flick—it’s a calculated corporate move aimed at blending the Fox Marvel characters with Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) all while being a love letter to the early to mid-2000s comic film cycle that dominated screens before Iron Man (2008) officially began the MCU. During that time, Marvel licensing was shared among numerous studios. In particular, with Disney’s purchase of 20th Century Fox in 2019, the mouse house became the new home to characters including Deadpool, Daredevil, the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, and many others.

Despite its corporate roots and narrative flaws centered around the “sacred timeline” (yes, the multiverse again) that Deadpool is meant to protect, the movie isn’t entirely without substance. Firmly entrenched in the power of friendship and living a life full of love, the Shawn Levy (Free Guy) directed picture chips away at male action archetypes while embracing several genre tropes, such as the buddy-cop film and road movie, focusing on Deadpool and Wolverine as they grow in their relationship. Albeit the film lacks any true visual inspiration even as it aspires to pay homage to George Miller’s Mad Max world. Nonetheless, you are not coming to Deadpool and Wolverine for a lesson in cinematography.

Ultimately, the dynamic between Reynolds’ sarcastic, foul-mouthed mercenary and Jackman’s Shakespearean hero provides genuinely funny moments, real depth, and serviceable action. Their banter is what the move is sold on and it certainly excels in this regard. Although this is the third Deadpool movie, the heart of the story lies with Wolverine, with Jackman delivering a masterclass in portraying pain, grief, and F-bomb-fueled annoyance.

To fully appreciate Hugh Jackman’s return as Logan/Wolverine, one must rewind to the summer of 2000 when Bryan Singer’s X-Men premiered, earning a robust $50 million over its first three days in theatres. As a surprise hit following the modest but significant success of Blade (1998), Jackman’s Wolverine became the tortured soul of the mutant saga, adding weight to the comic book adaptation. The film’s success bolstered Columbia Pictures’ confidence in green-lighting Sam Raimi’s mega blockbuster Spider-Man (2002), which would solidify the comic book film era as we know it.

Today, Jackman’s Wolverine once again adds depth to the frantic proceedings of a comic book world brought to life. His performance, despite Reynolds’ earnest attempt, is worth the price of admission. While Reynolds offers more of the same, Jackman elevates the material. Furthermore, Jackman’s performance is a poignant reminder of the character’s legacy and the genre’s evolution. His presence offers a historical perspective, tracing the superhero film genre’s growth over the past two decades. This sense of history adds weight to the film, providing moments of genuine emotional resonance amid the otherwise corporate-driven plot.

While Deadpool and Wolverine is very much a corporate exercise, it remains a fun-filled, violent, heart-felt and escapist ride. Laced with crude humour, fan-service cameos, and Hugh Jackman’s enduring portrayal of Wolverine, the film gives MCU fans what they want and offers casual audiences a fun night at the movies where butter runs and soft drinks flow.