Fans have eagerly been awaiting the release of Deadpool 3, which is scheduled to hit theaters in May 2024. While specific details about the film's storyline have been kept under wraps, the casting announcements and set photos have generated a great deal of excitement among fans. One particularly thrilling aspect of the movie is the return of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, a character he portrayed for 17 years, starting with 2000's X-Men and concluding with the character's apparent demise in 2017's Logan. When initial set photos revealed Jackman sporting the iconic yellow and blue X-Men uniform from the comics, Marvel enthusiasts couldn't contain their enthusiasm.
By the time Deadpool 3 is released, it will have been six years since the extravagant and action-packed Deadpool 2. Although hardcore fans of the irreverent Merc With A Mouth have been eagerly anticipating the next installment since the conclusion of the sequel, any hopes for an official trilogy were put on hold due to Fox's acquisition by Marvel Studios and Disney, which resulted in the transfer of many Marvel characters. Fans were concerned that a Disney-owned Deadpool might lose the essence that made Ryan Reynolds' portrayal of the character so unforgettable. However, the announcement that future solo Deadpool films would maintain an R-rating helped alleviate some of these fears. Despite the intense anticipation for the upcoming film, it will take more than just accurate costumes and obscure appearances to keep the same level of excitement that the first two movies generated.
What Made Deadpool 1 & 2 Work?
Deadpool revolutionized the comic book genre by staying true to its source material while delivering an invigorating and unique experience. The first two films fearlessly embraced a raw and violent tone, expertly blending humor with the action. It is a movie that appeals to a wide range of audiences, offering something for everyone.
The initial installment of Deadpool shattered conventions and demonstrated the untapped potential of superhero movies when exploring mature themes. Wade Wilson's journey, as he struggles to accept his deteriorating health and fights for his relationship, unfolds as a profoundly human story within the superhero realm. Audience members resonate with his experience as they navigate the stages of grief alongside him, searching for a cure to an incurable illness. But when the supposed "cure" disfigures him horrifically, his anger dominates his actions, compelling him to seek revenge on those he believes are responsible for obstructing his pursuit of love.
What Should Deadpool 3 Do Differently?
Despite its lacking in the compelling nature of its story, particularly due to the fridging of Vanessa as the inciting incident, Deadpool 2 more than compensates with its captivating world-building and thrilling action. Notably, the film allows for its supporting cast to shine, with standout performances from Brianna Hildebrand as Negasonic Teenage Warhead, Zazie Beetz as Domino, and Josh Brolin as Cable. Blending the Buddy Cop/Team-Up genres seamlessly, the sequel features outrageous cameos and an abundance of fast-paced comedic dialogue that greatly resonates with its intended audience.
With Deadpool's official entry into the MCU, there is now ample opportunity for the character to truly showcase his unconventional connections with the super-powered realm he inhabits. Although viewers caught a glimpse of this dynamic in the first two films, it is within the expansive boundaries of the MCU that Wade Wilson can truly flourish. However, for this to transpire, Wade Wilson must bid farewell to his Fox universe.
However it occurs, the most ideal way for Deadpool to make a crossover is in the utmost authentic manner possible, while still avoiding the realm of fan service. Deadpool 2 was criticized for excessively relying on cheap jokes that detracted from the overall story. While it's thrilling that Hugh Jackman will reprise his role as Wolverine, this also presents a significant risk for Deadpool 3 if the character is not treated with respect.
Several characters from the first two Deadpool films have already been confirmed to appear in the upcoming installment, including Morena Baccarin as Vanessa, Karan Soni as Dopinder, and Brianna Hildebrand as Negasonic Teenage Warhead. Although limited details have been released regarding how Wolverine fits into this film (excluding the Doctor Strange 2 theory), it has been established that Deadpool 3 will not impact the conclusion of Logan. In fact, every detail revealed about Deadpool 3 suggests that it will be another chapter in the MCU's Multiverse Saga.
Regardless of how Deadpool 3 ultimately incorporates Wade Wilson into the MCU, be it by adapting the Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe concept or introducing a fresh narrative specifically crafted for the movie, it is indisputable that fans are eagerly anticipating the reunion of Wolverine and Deadpool. The release date for Deadpool 3 is scheduled for May 3, 2024.
