How Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Director Shawn Levy Resurrected a Franchise with Ping-Pong and R-Rated Antics
The third Deadpool movie was on the brink of extinction. Given the character’s massive popularity and the first two films' collective earnings of nearly $1.5 billion, it seemed implausible. Deadpool, the raunchy, R-rated anti-hero played by Ryan Reynolds, had breathed new life into the comic book movie genre. However, an unexpected turn of events threatened to silence the irreverent chatterbox assassin.
The movie clawed its way back to life after Hugh Jackman decided to bring Wolverine out of retirement to join forces with Reynolds. The actors, along with filmmaker Shawn Levy, refined the film’s comedy while battling each other on a ping-pong table provided by Reynolds's wife, Blake Lively. The journey to this point was fraught with challenges, as the trio reveals in a candid interview with Vanity Fair.
The Near-Death Experience of Deadpool 3
Ryan Reynolds admitted the struggle to find the right angle for Deadpool 3. “I felt like I spiritually owed one more,” he said, acknowledging the toll such projects take. The acquisition of 20th Century Fox by Disney complicated matters further, as Deadpool's R-rated antics clashed with Disney's family-friendly image.
Shawn Levy, who previously worked with Reynolds on Free Guy and The Adam Project, signed on to direct. Despite their successful past collaborations, they initially did not consider Jackman, who had officially retired Wolverine after 2017’s Logan. However, months of unsuccessful story development left them considering abandoning the project.
A Crucial Call from Hugh Jackman
Then, in August 2022, while on a vacation from his Broadway stint in The Music Man, Jackman had a revelation. He called Reynolds, expressing his desire to reprise his role as Wolverine in a Deadpool film. “I know it in my bones. I know it in my gut,” Jackman recalled saying. This call came just in time for a meeting with Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, who quickly endorsed the idea.
Integrating into the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Reynolds, Levy, and their writing team, including Deadpool veterans Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese, along with Zeb Wells, worked meticulously to create a story that respected the legacy of Logan while allowing for Deadpool’s unique brand of humor. They faced the challenge of bringing Wolverine back in a way that did not interfere with his poignant farewell in Logan.
The inclusion of Jackman brought a new dimension to the film. Reynolds explained, “Deadpool’s a very verbose character… Putting that next to a character whose archetype is very Clint Eastwood creates something pretty interesting.” The contrast between Deadpool’s chaos and Wolverine’s gruff demeanor promised a dynamic new layer to the film.
The Ping-Pong Factor
Behind the scenes, a ping-pong table became a symbol of their camaraderie and creative synergy. Blake Lively sent the table to Pinewood Studios, adding a playful element to the rigorous filming schedule. Jackman and Reynolds bonded over games, which helped maintain a light-hearted atmosphere on set despite the intense work.
Addressing Cultural Sensitivities
Levy emphasized that Deadpool’s transgressive humor remained intact, adapted to reflect contemporary cultural awareness. “We didn’t make a more careful Deadpool movie,” Levy stated. “It’s as aware of the culture and as aware of being in a movie as the character always has been.”
Reynolds highlighted the unique dynamic Deadpool brings to the MCU. “Deadpool is the only character who has that ability to do that [break the fourth wall]. If everyone did that, then you would no longer invest in that character as much.” This careful balance allowed the film to maintain its distinct tone while fitting into the broader Marvel universe.
A New Era for Deadpool and Wolverine
The collaboration between Reynolds, Jackman, and Levy transformed Deadpool & Wolverine into more than just a sequel. It became a testament to friendship, creativity, and perseverance. Jackman found new joy in portraying Wolverine, enriched by the fresh dynamic Deadpool brought. “Every family has a Deadpool in it somewhere,” Jackman quipped, underscoring the relatable chaos Deadpool brings to the story.
As the film gears up for its July 26 release, fans can anticipate an unprecedented blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments. Deadpool & Wolverine promises to deliver a unique superhero experience, proving that even the wildest ideas can come to life with the right mix of passion and creativity.
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Source: Vanity Fair
Source: Vanity Fair
Photo Credit: Guy Aroch For Vanity Fair
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