Deadpool 2 - 3 smiles

The question about a sequel is whether it will be good enough to avoid embarrassing everyone involved.  The original Deadpool was the first R-rated superhero movie full of snark and audacity that was a surprise box office hit. Fortunately for "Deadpool 2," star Ryan Reynolds and the creative team give us more of what made the first so enjoyable. It's funny, energetic and determined not to take itself seriously. There's a James Bond-like opening musical number (song courtesy of Celine Dion) complete with Deadpool-inspired fake credits that act as a commentary on the prologue. The story that evolves from there pits Deadpool against Cable (Josh Brolin), throws in some other Marvel characters (who become X Force) and gives our self-deprecating hero more insight into his belief system.

"Dead pool 2" sticks to the template established by Deadpool so the fourth wall isn't much of a barrier with the title character frequently addressing the audience. And there are a few cameos, including one that's so quick if you blink you miss him. (Hint" it's Brad Pitt.) Pay attention to the soundtrack because you'll see a fight scene choreographed to Dolly Parton's "9 to 5." Plus unusual uses for "(The Sun'll come Out) Tomorrow," "If I Could Turn Back Time." "In Your Eyes" and "All Out of Love." So....."Deadpool 2" is successful because you get what you expect. But if there's another Deadpool, the writers will need to come up with something new or it will be 'been there, seen that.'

Note: 2019 will see an X Force movie that will include Deadpool; (Ryan Reynolds), Cable (Josh Brolin), Domino (Zadie Beetz), Colossus (Stefan Kapicic), Teenage Negasonic Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), Russell (Julian Dennison) and Yukio (Shioli Kutsuna). If you see "Deadpool 2," you know who these characters are.