Instead of advancing its self-awareness, Deadpool 2 tells the same joke again. There are dated references, contrivances, convoluted B-plots, self-indulgent humor, and flimsy motivations. It attempts an unearned and vague character arc, exposing how (besides his wisecracking and his love life) inconsistent the protagonist's values are. Meanwhile, the script contradicts itself, centering its conflict around preventing a hero from murdering a villain. Still, it delivers personality, adds some setup/payoff, and simulates drama and themes. Also, the acting has comedic snark and vulnerable moments (though these undercut each other at times). Thus, Deadpool 2 is diminished returns.
Technically, Deadpool 2's tones are disjointed. The cinematography provides noticeable lighting plus decent angles, focus, and movement. Muddling structure and impeding momentum, its editing has too many cross cuts. Genre elements, distortions, and voiceovers make for proactive sound designs. Its music does little to expand on its comedic needle-drop gimmick. The production design brings a slightly bigger scale along with the superhero world-building. Its cast includes cameos and Brolin, yet still leans heavily on Reynolds' stardom. Its effects are abundant but almost solely CGI, which isn't always convincing. Ultimately, Deadpool 2 is overshadowed by its predecessor.
Writing: 5/10
Direction: 6/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 6/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 7.0/10
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