A Delayed But Highly Anticipated Crossover
The Marvel fandom has been buzzing with anticipation for the showdown of the century: Deadpool vs. Wolverine. Alas, the wait has gotten a little longer. Deadpool 3, the hotly-anticipated crossover featuring both Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, is now on an indefinite hiatus due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. But fret not, as director Shawn Levy has opened up about what audiences can expect when these two iconic characters finally share the screen.
Ryan Reynolds’ Unique Perspective on Deadpool
Shawn Levy, in a candid interview on The Jess Cagle Show, shed some light on Ryan Reynolds’ influence on the film as not just the lead actor but also a co-writer and producer.
“And, in fact, I’ll say this because Ryan was also my fellow writer on this movie and is my fellow producer on this movie. At every turn, Ryan is amazing at wanting Deadpool to lose. Deadpool… the truth is that Deadpool’s awesome, but he’s deeply flawed — and Wolverine is Wolverine.”
Levy explained that Reynolds is primarily concerned with what will drive the story forward, even if that means letting Deadpool lose a few battles here and there.
A Star-Studded Marvel Dream Team
Both Reynolds and Jackman aren’t just co-stars; they are actively invested in making Deadpool 3 a success. They’re drawing from their real-life friendship, leaving egos at the door to ensure the film is the best it can be.
“For us as audience members — because I count myself… I’m an audience member before I’m a director — to get these two movie stars in their most iconic roles together is [a] dream come true.”
And it’s not just about rehashing their roles; it’s about doing justice to their characters in a way that hasn’t been done before.
“Here’s the truth: Ryan and Hugh — and the reason they’re close friends of mine is — they’re both extremely grounded generous people.”
More Than Just A Reunion
Fans of the Marvel Universe might remember the pair’s initial big-screen face-off in 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine. But this isn’t a mere rehash. Deadpool 3 promises a unique angle, fueled by the stars’ off-screen camaraderie and mutual respect for each other’s work.
“So, both guys are always trying to set up the other to win.”
What’s Next: An Uncertain But Promising Future
Unfortunately, due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes, the movie’s initial release date of May 3, 2024, has been postponed. As of now, a new release date is yet to be announced. However, fans are staying hopeful and tuning in to watch Ryan Reynolds‘ announcement regarding Hugh Jackman’s return as Wolverine.
Final Thoughts: Still a Lot to Look Forward To
Although the delay is disheartening, the insights from Shawn Levy’s recent interview add an extra layer of anticipation and excitement for when Deadpool 3 finally makes its debut. With a creative team this passionate and a duo as iconic as Deadpool and Wolverine, it’s hard not to be optimistic about what the future holds for this Marvel crossover.