Deadpool 2 Review: 8 Ups & 3 Downs

2. The Emotional Stakes

Considering the temptation to think of Deadpool as just a "clown dressed up like a sex toy" (thanks, Cable), it's really quite stunning how well Leitch has done to balance the silliness and the hyper-violence with genuine heart.

The entire plot is driven by similar narrative beats to Logan (about belonging and finding your true "family" calling) with side-glances at abuse, mental health issues and genuinely devastating tragedy. None of it is done in a throw-away way either - it's all given correct reverence and the result is a gripping depth and complexity that completely changes the character.

This sort of complex story-telling was completely lacking from the first movie and it's genuinely incredible to think that there will legitimately be people who are brought to tears. Aha's "Take On Me" has a lot to answer for, that's for sure.