Movie start 'Deadpool & Wolverine' - Does this film save the Marvel Universe?
Recently, it seemed that Marvel Studios were having a hard time with anything new succeeding. The massive Marvel Cinematic Universe, the most financially successful film franchise in cinematic history, was increasingly struggling. Announcements like "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" and "The Marvels" on the film side or Superhero series like "Secret Invasion" and "Echo" on Disney+ caused disappointment and disillusionment among previously euphoric Marvel fans. The fear arose that the MCU could be on the brink of collapse.
But with "Deadpool & Wolverine," which starts in German cinemas on July 24, a new Marvel project is set to turn things around. Ryan Reynolds (47) makes his debut as the Merc with a Mouth Deadpool in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The beloved Hugh Jackman (55) returns as the adamantium-clawed mutant Wolverine to the big screen after his supposed farewell in "Logan - The Wolverine." What could possibly go wrong?
The expectations for the only cinematic release of Marvel Studios in this calendar year were immense, and the third "Deadpool" installment largely delivers on these expectations.
About "Deadpool & Wolverine"
Approximately six years after the events of "Deadpool 2," the formerly known as Deadpool Wade Wilson (Reynolds) has hung up his superhero mantle. Together with the former X-Force member Peter (Rob Delaney, 47), he sells cars instead. Suddenly, the Time Variance Authority appears on the scene and informs Deadpool that he must find a Wolverine (Jackman) to save the entire universe. The start of a whole series of multiverse adventures.
Wolverine and Deadpool enter the MCU
Marvel fans and cinema-goers are advised to have seen the streaming series "Loki" with Tom Hiddleston (43) in the title role beforehand. Without prior knowledge of variants, the TVA, stabilization, and the emptiness at the end of time, it may be difficult to follow the multiverse story of the 34th Marvel film.
But "Deadpool & Wolverine" wouldn't be a "Deadpool" film if the plot didn't occasionally take a back seat. The mercenary Deadpool, who never stops talking, takes liberties on the meta level and makes fun of everything imaginable in his third cinematic appearance.
Deadpool's offhand welcome of his new on-screen partner Wolverine in the MCU, along with an apology for the MCU being in a sorry state at the moment, even manages to make light of the current state of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Overall, the film is filled with jokes about Disney, Marvel Studios, the former 20th Century Fox, Marvel Boss Kevin Feige (51), Wolverine actor Jackman, and his never-ending superhero career, and many other things. Not all viewers will understand every joke, but that's exactly what made the smart "Deadpool" series appealing in the first place.
Spectacular Cameo Performances and Endless Respect for the Characters
Musically, the ironic approach continues as hits from past decades like "Bye Bye Bye" by *NSYNC, "Like a Prayer" by Madonna (65), or - something more obscure - "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls play in key scenes.
Besides the expected elements, "Deadpool & Wolverine" surprises with a great love for the depicted characters. Fans of the Mutant Wolverine and his actor Jackman expressed concerns in advance about a disrespectful handling of both. And of course, the lead actor Reynolds makes plenty of jokes about the Australian and the iconic character he portrays. But even the ending of the film pulls back a hat towards Wolverine, almost managing to overshadow the nearly perfect farewell in "Logan".
A whole series of former Marvel characters and actors make unexpected cameo appearances. These should not be spoiled here, but they testify to an endless respect for the fan favorites of yesteryear and their actresses and actors.
And the 16-year age rating for "Deadpool & Wolverine" stands out admirably. The fights here - unlike typical for the Marvel Cinematic Universe - fall out extremely bloody. Heads are decapitated, intestines come to the surface, blood flows in streams, and even the humor is significantly coarser and more adult than in the in Germany released "Avengers" films and other Marvel works from 12 years and above.
It remains to be seen if "Deadpool & Wolverine" will really be the last Marvel appearance of the legendary Hugh Jackman. Many fans would certainly wish for a further appearance - preferably again with Deadpool by his side, as the chemistry between the two actors Reynolds and Jackman is convincing all around.
- Walt Disney, the founder of Disney Studios, must be excited about the resurgence of Marvel Studios, given their struggle recently.
- Interestingly, the 'Auto' sector seems less concerned with the MCU's challenges, focusing more on electric vehicle advancements.
- At Cinestart, attendees are looking forward to the Cinematic release of 'Deadpool & Wolverine', hoping it will boost Marvel Studios' reputation.
- The relationship between Deadpool and Wolverine, both portrayed by Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman respectively, adds an exciting twist to the movie.
- Universities offering courses in Media Studies might include analyses of 'Deadpool & Wolverine' in their curriculum due to its unique plot and controversial content.
- Streaming platforms are also eager to acquire the rights for the 'Deadpool & Wolverine' series, adding to its widespread reach.
- Fans and critics alike have high expectations for the 'Series' that could potentially spin off from the 'Deadpool & Wolverine' movie.
- Hugh Jackman's portrayal of Wolverine in the 'Movie' has revived interest in the MCU and fueled a new surge of passion for the character.
- Critiques of the 'Cinematic' version of 'Deadpool & Wolverine' might primarily focus on its graphic violence, balancing entertainment and controversy.
- Marvel Studios, with MCU's influence, played a significant role in bringing Deadpool & Wolverine together on-screen, further expanding the cinematic world.
