Deadpool & Wolverine: A refreshing twist in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Spoiler Alert: This article delves into significant plot details, including post-credits scenes, from Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine,” currently in theaters.
A new era of irreverence
In “Deadpool & Wolverine,” Ryan Reynolds’ iconic Merc with a Mouth introduces the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to a level of audacity it has never seen before. The film is a whirlwind of blood and gore, vulgar humor, and unapologetic references to drug use and sexual practices. Deadpool’s self-aware snark is at its peak, slicing through the MCU with a sharpness that feels both refreshing and necessary.
Deadpool’s meta-commentary
From the moment Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) welcomes Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) to the MCU, he doesn’t shy away from pointing out the studio’s recent missteps. He humorously acknowledges Marvel’s “low point,” a nod to the studio’s challenging 2023. Deadpool’s groans about the multiverse and its underwhelming narrative impact resonate with many fans who have felt the same way. The film even includes a hilarious jab at Marvel’s struggles to bring “Blade” back to the big screen, featuring a surprise cameo by Wesley Snipes, who declares that there will only ever be one Blade.
Breaking the fourth wall
One of the MCU’s charms has always been its ability to poke fun at itself. From Doctor Strange listening to Beyoncé to the Avengers debating time travel mechanics using “Back to the Future,” the franchise has never taken itself too seriously. However, Deadpool’s ability to break the fourth wall takes this irreverence to a new level. These jokes are a treat for die-hard MCU fans and casual viewers alike, making the film accessible to a broader audience.
A love letter to superhero cinema
Deadpool’s deep affection for the MCU is evident throughout the film. His jabs at the franchise come from a place of love and a desire to be part of the Marvel family. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is an R-rated homage to why audiences have been captivated by superheroes for so long. After a series of lackluster projects and negative headlines, the film serves as a reminder that it’s okay to have fun at a superhero movie.
A nostalgic farewell
The film’s end credits are a heartfelt tribute to the superhero films made by 20th Century Fox. Instead of teasing future MCU projects, Reynolds and director Shawn Levy present a montage of behind-the-scenes footage from various Marvel movies, set to Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life).” The montage includes clips from the “X-Men” movies, the “Deadpool” movies, the “Wolverine” movies, the “Blade” movies, “Daredevil,” “Elektra,” and even the 2015 “Fantastic Four” reboot.
Reflecting on the past
The montage features a young Ryan Reynolds during the press tour for 2009’s “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” where he admits to feeling a kinship with Wade Wilson from reading comics as a kid. Hugh Jackman, on the set of 2000’s ”X-Men,” shares his nerves about playing a beloved character in his first studio movie. These moments tug at the heartstrings, reminding viewers of the journey these actors and characters have taken over the years.
The anti-post credits scene
In true Deadpool fashion, the film’s only real post-credits scene is a riotously irreverent moment. Midway through the movie, Deadpool and Wolverine encounter a group of forgotten comic book characters, including Chris Evans as Johnny Storm from the “Fantastic Four.” When they are captured by the villain Cassandra Nova (Emma Corrin), Deadpool falsely claims that Johnny insulted her, leading to a gruesome scene where Cassandra rips off Johnny’s skin.
A smutty palate cleanser
After the credits roll, Deadpool reappears to address the rumors about Johnny’s death. He plays footage of Johnny ranting about Cassandra, filled with colorful and explicit language. This scene serves as a bewitchingly smutty palate cleanser, shaking off the pressure for Marvel to constantly tease new storylines. It’s a fitting end to a film that has already satirized post-credits scenes in 2016’s “Deadpool.”
A new chapter for Marvel
“Deadpool & Wolverine” is a bold and refreshing addition to the MCU. It embraces the franchise’s strengths while fearlessly pointing out its flaws. By making fun of superheroes, the film makes them fun again, reminding audiences why they fell in love with these characters in the first place. As the MCU continues to evolve, “Deadpool & Wolverine” stands as a testament to the power of irreverence and the enduring appeal of superhero cinema.
For more details and to watch the trailer, visit Deadpool & Wolverine.