The production of a major movie blockbuster is underway on the Royal Roads University Campus this week. Ceilidh Millar reports.

Deborah Bruser and Helen Colbeck cycled from Oak Bay to take in the scenic views at Royal Roads University. “We’re here having our lunch and then we’re cycling back,” Bruser said. “That’s a 42-kilometre round trip!” Little did they know they had stumbled upon the set of a major movie production. The sequel to Hollywood’s blockbuster comic book film, Deadpool, is reportedly being filmed at Hatley Castle this week. “What is Deadpool?” both women asked with a laugh. Despite mixed reviews for its raunchy content, the anti-super hero film grossed millions at the box office in 2016 with Ryan Reynolds at the helm. “I don’t even know who Ryan Reynolds is, do you?” Colbeck asked Bruser. The 40-year-old B.C.-born actor stars as the main character, a foul-mouthed mercenary from Saskatchewan.“I’ll definitely be checking out this Ryan Reynolds,” Bruser said. “I wonder how those films rate on Rotten Tomatoes. I don’t like to waste time on poor quality films because time is short especially as you age.” It’s worth watching to see the scenes shot in the Capital Region. Hatley Castle was used in the previous film as the X-mansion. With multiple filming locations across the province, the production employed more than 2,000 British Columbians as actors, crew and extras. “We are blessed with so much talent in North America,” Bruser said. “But in the pecking order of things, I just don’t know where Deadpool stands.” “I’ll definitely check it out because I believe we should embrace popular culture, Helen!” Deadpool 2 is set to be released next year. Deborah and Helen – we look forward to your review!