The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has witnessed countless blockbusters, but few have captured audiences’ attention like Deadpool & Wolverine. As the first official Deadpool movie under Disney’s banner, it not only broke records but redefined what an R-rated superhero movie could achieve. The film grossed a staggering $1.3 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing superhero movies of all time and dethroning Joker as the top-grossing R-rated film. However, the movie’s path to success was far from straightforward, with Ryan Reynolds pitching an astonishing 19 different ideas before landing on the perfect story.
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The Genesis of Deadpool & Wolverine
The making of Deadpool & Wolverine is a story of serendipity and relentless creativity. While fans were eager for Deadpool’s introduction into the MCU, the idea for this particular pairing was not part of the original plan. In fact, the initial pitches for Deadpool 3 were wildly different.
Reynolds, known for his passion for the character, reportedly pitched between 19 and 20 ideas for the third installment. Executive Producer Wendy Jacobson, in the Disney+ documentary Assembled: The Making of Deadpool & Wolverine, described Reynolds as an “ideas machine,” constantly brainstorming and presenting new concepts. These ranged from small, Sundance-style productions to mid-sized films with limited action, showcasing the actor’s willingness to explore unconventional directions for the character.
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The Call That Changed Everything
The turning point came when Hugh Jackman, while on holiday, had an epiphany about revisiting his iconic Wolverine role. Jackman reached out to Reynolds with the idea of a “Wolverine & Deadpool” movie, a concept that immediately resonated. At the time, Reynolds and the team were still navigating through various pitches for Deadpool 3. Jackman’s call provided the spark needed to steer the project in a new direction, ultimately leading to the collaboration fans didn’t know they needed.
This fateful call not only brought Jackman out of retirement as Wolverine but also allowed Reynolds to refine his focus, integrating Wolverine’s legacy into a movie that paid homage to both characters while serving as Deadpool’s grand entry into the MCU.
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Reynolds’ Unused Ideas: A Glimpse into Creative Madness
Reynolds’ pitches for Deadpool 3 were as varied as they were ambitious. In an interview, he revealed some of his more unconventional ideas, including:
- A $4 Million Sundance-Style Movie: This pitch imagined Deadpool in his iconic suit but featured no action sequences, focusing instead on character-driven storytelling.
- A Deleted Scenes Extravaganza: This concept involved revealing Deadpool’s presence throughout the MCU timeline, inserting him humorously into key moments from past movies.
- A Thor: The Dark World Remake: Another idea involved a parody-style remake of Thor: The Dark World, only to pivot halfway into an entirely different storyline.
While these ideas didn’t make the cut, they highlight Reynolds’ dedication to pushing creative boundaries. Each concept demonstrated his understanding of Deadpool’s irreverent tone while attempting to innovate within the superhero genre.
Why Deadpool & Wolverine Worked So Well
The final iteration of Deadpool & Wolverine was a testament to the collaborative process. Combining Reynolds’ comedic brilliance with Jackman’s gravitas, the movie struck a perfect balance between humor, action, and nostalgia. The inclusion of over 100 Easter eggs, cameos, and references delighted fans while anchoring the movie within the MCU’s larger narrative.
The chemistry between Deadpool and Wolverine was undeniably the movie’s heart, with their contrasting personalities creating comedic and emotional moments that resonated with audiences. The film also managed to pay homage to the legacy of the X-Men franchise, offering closure to long-time fans while seamlessly introducing Deadpool into the MCU.
Breaking Records and Setting New Standards
Deadpool & Wolverine shattered expectations at the box office, earning $1.3 billion globally. It became the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever, surpassing Joker’s record, and solidified its place as one of Marvel’s most successful films.
Critics and audiences alike praised the movie for its fresh take on the superhero genre. While some reviewers criticized its reliance on fan service and cameos, the overall consensus was that the movie stood on its own merits, blending nostalgia with a compelling narrative.
What This Means for the MCU’s Future
The success of Deadpool & Wolverine has opened doors for more unconventional storytelling within the MCU. It proved that mature content and boundary-pushing humor could coexist within Disney’s family-friendly empire. Moreover, it showcased Ryan Reynolds’ ability to think outside the box, making him an invaluable asset to Marvel’s future endeavors.
Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president, referred to Reynolds as an “ideas machine,” acknowledging the actor’s relentless creativity. With Reynolds now firmly integrated into the MCU, it’s likely that many of his unused ideas could resurface in future projects, whether as standalone films or comedic interludes within larger narratives.
What’s Next for Deadpool?
As fans celebrate the success of Deadpool & Wolverine, the question remains: what’s next for the Merc with a Mouth? With Reynolds at the helm, the possibilities are endless. Whether it’s revisiting his “deleted scenes extravaganza” concept or experimenting with smaller, character-driven stories, audiences can expect the unexpected.
One thing is certain: Reynolds has proven his ability to not only bring Deadpool to life but to continuously evolve the character in ways that surprise and delight fans. The serendipity of Jackman’s involvement only adds to the intrigue of what lies ahead for Deadpool’s journey in the MCU.
Deadpool & Wolverine wasn’t just a box-office hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. Its success is a testament to Ryan Reynolds’ relentless creativity, Hugh Jackman’s timeless appeal, and the power of collaboration. As the MCU continues to expand, the bar set by Deadpool & Wolverine will serve as both a challenge and an inspiration. Fans can only hope that Reynolds’ “ideas machine” will keep churning out unforgettable stories for years to come.
