I’m going to start by boldly saying that this movie–the one that starred RyanReynolds and eventually grossed over $600 million in worldwide revenue, making it “the highest-grossing R-rated comic book film”–was a really fresh take on a hero (well, not exactly a hero, but you know what I mean). Sure, Deadpool in comics IS an overly talkative mercenary with a potty mouth and a ridiculous sense of humor. He’s fully aware that he’s just a fictional character and I think THIS knowledge of his unreal existence is what gives him the edge over other characters in both comics and film. Deadpool just doesn’t take himself (or his cancer) too seriously, which gives him that amusing and unique persona. And the movie, rightfully so, perfectly embodies this. From the opening to the closing credits, the film IS everything Deadpool.

Second, unlike many birth-of-a-super-hero films, this one has the perfect balance of action, humor, and story. Oh, and Ry-, er, Deadpool was right to describe the film as a love story, because that’s exactly what the plot is: Wade Wilson and Vanessa Carlysle’s love story. Though kind of formulaic, the execution is what sets this movie apart. The comedy, action, and gore injected in the film make it more interesting and entertaining. What I enjoyed the most, however, is the mockery of the clichés you’d find in many super hero movies, such as the super hero landing. References to popular culture, such as that infamous arm-cutting scene in 127 Hours and Sinéad O'Connor’s hair made the movie so relatable, especially for Generation X which both Ryan Reynolds and I are a part of (yep, I’m THAT old). The jokes are relentless. That one, where Deadpool himself poked fun at the lack of budget for more X-men characters in his movie, was hilarious and genius. In other words, this film, while it deviates from clichés through self-mockery, does the character justice. Deadpool is never dull, just like this movie.

Finally, like what many have been saying, Ryan Reynolds was born for the part, and I completely agree. His personality (okay, fine. His physique, too) gave life to Deadpool. I honestly can’t think of a better actor to play the role. Can you? Because I can’t!

A sequel was already given the green light and I can’t wait to see it. Would I recommend this first installment to friends? Definitely. Would I allow my nieces and nephew to watch it? Hell no! Would I watch it again? Of course! How many stars do I give it for the sake of “reviewing”? 4 out of 5.

And that, dear readers, concludes this Deadpool movie review.