Arrival of Deadpool and Wolverine in Marvel Cinematic Universe
After the release of the first "Iron Man" in 2008, the Marvel Cinematic Universe gradually became a blockbuster juggernaut, with every film outing being critical to box office success. Unfortunately, as of late, quantity over quality appears to have become their new motto, while there are worse films deserving of severe polarizing from fans and critics alike.
The last few releases from Marvel/Disney as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, while not overly brilliant or memorable, I can say without hesitation there is no regret from watching those films. Aside from less-than-stellar box-office returns, not all is hopeless from the world of Marvel. For the first time, fans are going to witness the characters Deadpool and Wolverine entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe on the big screen. I never thought this specific combination would come to fruition in my lifetime.
Knowing that, on July 26, it will be a treat seeing two iconic entities interact with established characters in the same universe. And to think, Deadpool's initial cinematic outing did not even happen. Ryan Reynolds remained with his passion project during its status remaining in developmental limbo. In 2014, an unknown insider within the entertainment industry leaked computer-generated/animated test footage of an exciting action sequence featuring Deadpool. The footage generated acclaim from both fans, critics and general audiences alike.
The positive reception to the leaked footage prompted Fox Studios into shepherding Deadpool into the world of live action. Reynolds' passion received life in an unexpected fashion, whereas other initially enthusiastic actors vacate a project after years of a story remaining in limbo. Deadpool's concept offers a unique perspective into the world of a self-aware comic book character acknowledging his fictional status and audiences peeking into the mind of an unstable mercenary, recognizing various popular culture references with Deadpool constantly breaking the fourth wall.
Where "Deadpool" differed from the standard comic book film affair is the complete embrace of his chaotic mindset, highlighting over-the-top, bloody violence, pervasive profanity and adult innuendos that only teenagers and adults are overly familiar with. Reynolds channels his natural charisma and comedic timing that made him a memorable talent based on his performances in National Lampoon's "Van Wilder," "Waiting," "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle" and "The Change-Up." His voice, mannerisms and physical presence are a perfect fit for the character of Deadpool.
Deadpool's first film explores his origin tale as a mercenary diagnosed with cancer. As he becomes desperate for a cure, he enters a secret government program known as Weapon X. The experiment goes awry, causing the cancer to mutate even worse, disfiguring his physical appearance while granting him a nonstop healing factor. Wade Wilson/Deadpool begins a hysterical journey of breaking the fourth wall dialogue, and interactions filled with chaotic comic book violence served as a revenge story.
The second film follows a similar formula with an expanded list of characters appearing, introducing time-traveling elements, branching the universe into multiverse world. Adding to the excitement is Hugh Jackman returning to the role of Wolverine after initially retiring from the role after 2017's "Logan." The live-action depiction of Wolverine officially entered a realm, and it will be a jarring experience watching another actor attempt to replace Jackman. I view it as like Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man. No one else can, will or should play the character, as the role belongs to him exclusively. Like Wolverine/Logan belongs to Jackman, given he has played the character since the year 2000.
The beautiful element of "Deadpool and Wolverine" is the overall acceptance of adapting comic book-accurate costumes, fully investing in bright color schemes and furthermore giving fans an experience they have consistently yearned for ever since comic book films became fashionable. Plot details have remained very secretive surrounding the actual synopsis of "Deadpool and Wolverine." However, one fact is the excitement, curiosity and anticipation for the film are at a fever pitch with two characters making their debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For the first time in my experience, there is an element of the unknown with this feature. Teasers and trailers have not offered much in the way of spoiling key scenes. I have to say there is sincere excitement in not knowing what to expect.
The combination of an unstable, humorous Deadpool interacting with an intense, brooding, gruff exterior and interior character of Wolverine in the vein of a buddy cop concept as a comic book adaptation shall be a cinematic treat for fans and the general audience. I will say the Marvel timeline is quite chaotic with a massive story to catch up on in terms of storytelling and character exposition. My recommendation is to watch all the "X-Men" films, all three "Wolverine" adaptations and of course the last two "Deadpools." Those cinematic outings should at least provide a degree of understanding for those not overly familiar with the overall storyline.
I purchased my ticket early for the opening night of "Deadpool and Wolverine." To say that I am fully looking forward to the experience would be an understatement. "Deadpool," "Deadpool II" and "Logan" changed the perspective on how to approach these types of stories without watering down any of the initial carnage. Be prepared for the arrival of "Deadpool and Wolverine" on July 26.
To watch Isaiah Ridley's movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.