Deadpool 2 is more of the same, just for another two hours.

Rating: 6/10 (17 May 2018)

Whether you view that as a negative or positive will depend on how much you enjoyed its predecessor. For me, it was decent with enough violence, fourth wall breaks and referential comedy to differentiate itself from other superhero flicks. This sequel, is unfortunately inferior. Deadpool must team up with his new X-Force members to stop Cable, a futuristic terminator, from murdering a mutant child. Reynolds is back as the titular anti-hero who's mouth needs some serious soap scrubbing. His natural charismatic persona is what gives the film life. Comedic execution, deadpan delivery, exaggerative body movements, Reynolds is experienced enough now to carry the enormous weight of a franchise (particularly one he adores). Brolin added a seismic amount of physicality as the antagonising Cable whilst Beetz' sassy sarcasm wins her additional lucky points as Domino. Leitch's directing background of action films meant that the combat choreography was excitingly executed, particularly within the confined space of an armoured convoy. Plenty of pop cultural references within the screenplay ranging from 'Passion of the Christ' to the pounding techno beats of dubstep, a script that still remains self-aware as it targets itself as well as other films and people. That's where the majority of laughs come from (however, again, I did not laugh once). Also a surprisingly sombre first act which caught me off guard. However, the self-awareness has suffered fatigue. It's no longer new, and unfortunately this sequel comes across as forced and annoying in parts, with many scenes/jokes/gags being prolonged for what felt like an eternity. Far too many jokes relied on bashing the DC universe or other films which, whilst humorous at first, becomes uninspired two hours later. Given the large budget, the CGI was rather atrocious. The third act was questionable with some character choices that I did not necessarily conform to. Also, the frequent scene cuts and transitions detracted from what could've been a cohesively edited narrative. A somewhat safe yet enjoyable sequel.