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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
Basketball mania, free family entertainment, and live performances are guaranteed entertainment for the days ahead. Experience the Final Four activities or enjoy the popular Broadway production Mamma Mia! Check out the top things to do in San Antonio this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, April 3
Valero Texas Open
One of the oldest PGA Tour tournaments returns to TCP San Antonio for a weekend of world-class competition. The Valero Texas Open will feature nearly 150 of the top players in the world competing for the $9.2 million purse. Featured players include 2024 champion Akshay Bhatia, world No. 5 Ludvig Aberg, and others. Tickets are available online.
Broadway in San Antonio presents Mamma Mia!
An iconic tale of love and friendship told through the hits of pop band ABBA is live at Majestic Theatre. Audiences can experience the story of a daughter’s quest to discover her family history set in a Greek island paradise all on the eve of her wedding. Shows are scheduled through April 6.
The Tobin Center presents Wizard of Oz on Ice
The magical tale of Dorothy’s journey down the Yellow Brick Road comes to life on the ice at Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. This family friendly production will feature professional skating champions, interactive moments, and stunning visuals for all ages. Tickets for both shows are available now.
Friday, April 4
NCAA presents Reese's Men's Final Four Friday
The excitement of the NCAA Men’s Final Four is up close and personal at the Alamodome. This public event will feature open team practices, the Reese’s NABC All-Star Game, and more basketball-inspired activities. Admission is free and open to all ages.
NCAA presents March Madness Music Festival
Music stars gather to perform during the NCAA Men’s Final Four Weekend at Tower Park. Highlights of the three-day festival include a block party with performances by Pitbull, Doechii, and Ravyn Lenae. Additional performing artists include Jelly Roll, T-Pain, Chris Stapleton, Benson Boone, and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats. Admissions is free and open to the public.
Saturday, April 5
NCAA presents Men's Final Four River Rally
Cheer on the NCAA Final Four teams before the big game weekend at the San Antonio River Walk. This floating pep rally invites all fans to gather along the river and support their favorite teams in their journey to the championship. Rally admission is free and open to the public.
Stayin’ Alive: One Night of The Bee Gees
Experience the story of iconic musical group The Bee Gees through song tributes. This Tobin Center for the Performing Arts production will feature a setlist of hit songs including “Night Fever,” “You Should Be Dancing,” “Stayin’ Alive,” and more. This show is suitable for audiences of all ages. A limited number of tickets are available.