Most movies today seem to have a formula infused in the genre. Mysteries and thrillers try to keep you guessing. Comedies have jokes that are repetitive. Romances have a couple fall in love, break up, then get back together. You can usefully tell how a movie will end about halfway through.

But every once in a while, filmmakers grace the theaters with work that is so captivating, so unique, so original, that audiences are reminded of its glory every time they hear its name. Already in this new year there is a film that grabs attention and does not let go. This film is “Deadpool.” 

“Deadpool” is the story of Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), a brash ex-military operative turned mercenary who, after falling in love with a woman (Morena Baccarin) who is just as shameless as he is, develops cancer. Despite Wilson’s wildcard behavior he is offered a chance to cure his cancer by taking part in an experiment that will give him “special abilities”and make him a superhero.

Wilson soon realizes that all his past assumptions were wrong, and after undergoing a tortuous experimental process at the hands of Ajax (Ed Skrein), Wilson is gifted with the ability to heal from anything, while also looking terribly deformed.  Action and hilarity ensue as Wilson adopts the alter ego Deadpool to seek revenge against the people who made him a horrid — and hilarious — monster.

Many components make “Deadpool” an excellent film. Since Reynolds’ character has the ability to heal from any injury, he is constantly making jokes. Reynolds often breaks the “fourth wall” in the movie. Deadpool knows he is in a movie, and he enjoys every minute of it, often talking to the audience directly.

The “Deadpool” writers really understood how to best tell this story. In addition to nonstop action and comedy, “Deadpool” has heart.

The film’s soundtrack — including “Careless Whisper” by George Michael, “X Gonna Give It to Ya” by DMX , and “You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago — adds dimensions to the captivating story.

“Deadpool” is rated R, a huge risk by Twentieth Century Fox with a superhero movie, but it is paying off. “Deadpool” was already very popular because of the millions of Marvel comics sold, but now the studio has opened up a new franchise and set the stage for future superhero and other action movies.

“Deadpool” is raw and has graphic scenes that deserve its R rating, but it is no surprise this film appeals to audiences everywhere. The film has provided many with a great date-night flick that isn’t your typical Nicholas Sparks romance. Even though “Deadpool”  is graphic, it is very much a love story.

This is not a film for younger movie goers. The 108-minute “Deadpool” contains gore — limbs are lost — and there’s plenty of foul language.

With a lead character named Deadpool, what else would you expect?