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When it comes to offensive material in movies, the line keeps getting pushed further and further out. Gross-out gags, profanity for profanity’s sake, and ultra-violence are the norm in certain genres, but the majority of the time those elements only seem to be there to cover up storytelling or filmmaking deficiencies.
Not so in Deadpool, which manages to maintain its wit and charm despite being offensive as hell. Ryan Reynolds stars as the titular anti-superhero — real name: Wade Wilson — a mercenary who’s subjected to a torturous experiment that allows him to develop supernatural healing powers, at the expense of having his entire body look like melted cheese.
The film, helmed by first-time feature director Tim Miller, jumps back and forth in time. It trails Deadpool as he tries to hunt Ajax (Ed Skrein), who inflicted much of the pain on him, while also showing earlier, happier times with girlfriend Vanessa (Morena Baccarin). Bridging both worlds is a friendship with Weasel (T.J. Miller), the bartender at the bar full of rogues which Wade/Deadpool frequents.
What is a constant throughout, though, is a stream of never-ending jokes. It starts in the title sequence, which eschews actual names for insults for everybody from Miller to Reynolds, and Wade/Deadpool carries it on, as his sense of humor and mouth have no off buttons. Not all the jokes land, but the vast majority of them do, leaving the audience bludgeoned by an avalanche of comedy.
That theme transfers over to the film’s multiple violent scenes. What Miller and his team, which includes the writers of Zombieland, understand is how to keep the balance between being too inane and too serious. It could be that Deadpool cracks wise even while carrying out his dastardly deeds, or that the bloodshed is gratuitous without being off-putting. But somehow the filmmakers found a way to appeal to a broad audience without treating us like we’re idiots.
They also provide a ton of fan service, referencing both real and movie world events. Deadpool is related to the X-Men universe, with two characters — Colossus and Negasonic Teenage Warhead — making appearances here. Jokes made at the expense of Deadpool’s ill-fated appearance in a previous X-Men film and of Reynolds’ own checkered superhero past are among the funniest in the whole movie.
The biggest reason for the film’s success is the inherent charisma of Reynolds — his good looks don't even figure into the equation. He utilizes multiple funny approaches, including “breaking the fourth wall” (i.e., talking directly to the audience), making it next to impossible to be disgusted by anything he does, even when he does distasteful things. It was Reynolds’ passion for the project that led to its finally seeing the light of day, and he appears to be relishing every second of it.
After a month and a half of stinkers, Deadpool is finally the first movie of 2016 worth paying money to see in the theaters. It’s an equal-opportunity offender, and it’s completely awesome.
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Weekend Event Guide
Outdoor cinema, art exhibitions, live music, and circus-inspired entertainment are on the agenda in the Alamo City. Experience music from a variety of global artists during Sunset: The Festival, or enjoy a free screening of the classic film Breakfast at Tiffany’s on the Tobin Center plaza. Check out the top seven things to do in San Antonio this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, March 6
Comedian Marc Maron performs live at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre on March 9.
Cirque Italia presents Paranormal Cirque
Circus, theatre, and cabaret worlds collide for a thrilling and fantastical evening of illusion and performance at Traders Village San Antonio. Under this unique big top, audiences will witness acrobats, illusionists, mysterious creatures, and more extraordinary things brought to life by imagination and artistry. Performances are scheduled through March 10. Tickets are available now.
Friday, March 7
San Antonio Museum of Art presents Envisioning the Hindu Divine: Expanding Darshan and Manjari Sharma
The rich and artistic theological history of India and Southeast Asia is on display at the San Antonio Museum of Art’s newest exhibition. Guests will explore nine of the most significant deities of the Hindu pantheon through a collection of works by contemporary artist Manjari Sharma. Following opening weekend, the exhibition will be on display through July 6.
Sunset: The Festival at The Espee
The Espee hosts two days of live music as part of Sunset: The Festival. Highlights of the weekend event include performances by Spoon, Band of Horses, Aly & AJ, The Droptines, Santigold, Warren G, and others. For a full setlist and ticketing information, go to The Espee website.
Majestic Theatre presents Blippi: Join the Band Tour
Popular YouTube children’s star Blippi is bringing his Join the Band national tour to Majestic Theatre. During this production, audiences can sing along to Blippi’s original songs and explore what makes music. He’ll be joined onstage by Meekah, Blippi’s singing and dancing friends. A limited number of tickets are available. This show is suitable for guests of all ages.
Saturday, March 8
Garden Ridge Market Days
Shop for fresh provisions, unique gifts, and more while supporting local area farmers and artisans during another installment of Garden Ridge Market Days. Guests can shop more than 130 vendors offering everything from microgreens, grass-fed beef, eggs, nuts, honey, and oils to candles, jewelry, bath products, boutique clothing, and more. Admission is free and open to the public.
The Tobin Center presents H-E-B Cinema on the Plaza
Enjoy a movie night under the stars at Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza at the Tobin Center. This month’s featured film is the 1961 hit Breakfast at Tiffany's, starring Audrey Hepburn. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to ensure good outdoor seats. A full bar and concessions will be available to complete the movie night. Admission is free.
Sunday, March 9
Charline McCombs Empire Theatre presents Marc Maron: All In
Comedian Marc Maron performs live in concert at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre. He’s best known for his appearances in movies like To Leslie, Joker, and Respect. Maron is also known as one of the original podcasters, launching his show WTF with Maron Maron in 2009. Tickets are available now.