5 Ways ‘Deadpool 2’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

‘Deadpool 2’ (2018) hit theaters with a bang, delivering the same irreverent humor and action that made the first film a success. Fans loved the return of Ryan Reynolds as the wise-cracking mercenary, but not everything about the movie has stood the test of time.

Some elements feel dated or less impressive now, while others still shine brightly. Let’s break down five ways ‘Deadpool 2’ hasn’t aged well and five ways it remains a standout.

Overuse of Pop Culture Jokes (Aged Poorly)

The film leans heavily on pop culture references, from 80s music to superhero movie jabs. These gags were funny in 2018 but feel stale today as trends have moved on.

Many jokes rely on fleeting cultural moments, like specific memes or celebrity mentions. Without context, newer viewers might miss the punchline, making the humor less effective.

Sharp Character Chemistry (Aged Masterfully)

The dynamic between Deadpool, Cable, and Domino crackles with energy. Their banter and clashing personalities keep the dialogue fresh and engaging.

Each actor brings something unique, creating a team-up that feels natural and fun. Even years later, their interactions hold up as a highlight of the film.

Dated CGI in Action Scenes (Aged Poorly)

Some action sequences, like the convoy chase, rely on CGI that looks clunky now. The effects were decent for the time but don’t match today’s standards.

Certain moments, like character movements or explosions, feel less polished compared to modern blockbusters. This makes some scenes less immersive on rewatch.

Bold Meta Humor (Aged Masterfully)

The film’s self-aware humor, poking fun at superhero tropes and Hollywood, remains a strength. Deadpool’s fourth-wall breaks still feel clever and original.

This approach keeps the movie from taking itself too seriously. It’s a refreshing contrast to more formulaic superhero films, even today.

Stereotypical Villain Portrayal (Aged Poorly)

The villain, a generic tough guy with a tragic backstory, feels flat compared to more nuanced antagonists in recent films. His motivations lack depth.

The reliance on a predictable “evil mutant” archetype doesn’t hold up. Modern audiences expect more complexity, which this character misses.

Strong Emotional Core (Aged Masterfully)

The story’s focus on Deadpool’s grief and redemption hits hard. His journey to find purpose feels raw and relatable, even years later.

The balance of heart and humor gives the film lasting emotional weight. It’s a rare superhero movie that nails this mix so well.

Forced Romantic Subplot (Aged Poorly)

The romance between Deadpool and Vanessa feels tacked on in parts. It lacks the spark of the first film, making some scenes feel unearned.

Their relationship doesn’t evolve much, and key moments feel rushed. This weakens the emotional stakes for newer viewers.

Creative Action Choreography (Aged Masterfully)

The fight scenes, like Deadpool’s battles with Cable, are inventive and thrilling. The mix of practical stunts and creative weapon use keeps them exciting.

These sequences feel dynamic and well-executed. They still rival action scenes in newer superhero films, holding up on rewatch.

Reliance on Shock Humor (Aged Poorly)

Some gags, like crude body humor or edgy one-liners, feel less clever now. They lean too hard on shock value, which doesn’t always land today.

Modern audiences often prefer sharper, more subtle comedy. These moments can feel like cheap laughs compared to the film’s smarter jokes.

Memorable Supporting Cast (Aged Masterfully)

Characters like Dopinder and Weasel steal scenes with their quirky charm. Their small but impactful roles add depth to the world.

The ensemble feels lived-in, with each character bringing something fresh. This keeps the movie engaging and fun, even after multiple viewings.

What’s your take on how ‘Deadpool 2’ has held up—share your favorite or least favorite moments in the comments!