So, 20th Century Fox has decided to take the very unconventional route of re-releasing a pretty successful film which debuted less than seven months ago, but making some very interesting adjustments along the way. Deadpool 2 had become a fan favorite in this year’s crowded hero arena. And just like the 2016 origin story of this “merc with a mouth,” its sequel was highly anticipated and well-received, mostly due to the VERY adult content laced throughout. It came as much surprise last month that a PG-13 cut was announced to be heading to theaters before the year’s end. Wait. What? Why? How? Yes, Once Upon a Deadpool is a real thing and there’s even a good reason to go see it (more on that later).
Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds), is still the mercenary for hire, and baddies hope to never end up on his hit list. Not much has changed with good ole DP from when we last saw him. He still works out of Weasel’s (T.J. Miller) bar, which is a haven for hitmen. Being taxied around by his personal chauffeur, Dopinder (Karan Soni) is still his number one mode of transportation. And no surprise here, Vanessa (Morena Baccarin) is still around as his better half. All seems good in the world until a recent misstep by DP brings misfortune right to his doorstep. And when fate comes knocking, there isn’t much you can do but accept the outcome.
DP’s life is shattered once again, leading him on another path to self-enlightenment. With the help of an old acquaintance, he must pick up the pieces and forge a path ahead to once again help those in need. This will lead him to a fiery kid named Russell (Julian Dennison), a few new potential allies and the mysterious Cable (Josh Brolin) who appears to be more than up for the challenge to take on our damaged hero. Unless you know the written stories tied to this plot, aka the comics, you’re going to be in for many surprises. Deadpool 2 puts in maximum effort.
Yeah, the plot is the exact same as before. This time around however, Once Upon a Deadpool takes a “The Princess Bride (1987)” approach to add 15 minutes or so of additional footage of narration of the story of Deadpool 2. And speaking of, this additional material is done by Ryan Reynolds and Fred Savage. What a way to wrap this arc with a tidy little bow. I would also implore audience members to stay put until the end of the credits, as there are a few more additions, including some material not seen the first time around. Even with the additional material, the experience is far less enjoyable than watching it as it was originally intended. Please remember this Disney once you officially take over the reigns of this franchise.
Once Upon a Deadpool is a movie that parents may want to jump on to take the kids to see since it’s now magically rated PG-13. Caution should still be used. There is still tons of violence throughout and the language still has a bite to it. I’d steer the little kiddos away. View this cut as a cable television version that would be shown on TNT or USA. So why go see this movie in theaters rather than just watching the “no punches pulled” cut you can see in your own home? The additional footage is fun and enjoyable for the most part. Another reason is that you’re getting a semi-censored version that you maybe enjoy with those that want to do without all of the graphic violence and strong language long before it’ll show up on broadcast television or censored cable stations. The biggest reason to consider reaching into your wallets and purses is that for every ticket sold, $1 is also going to go to the charity Fudge Cancer. In theaters for a short run of the next twelve days. How holiday-ish is that?!
