In the highly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine, the irreverent anti-hero Deadpool doesn’t hold back, taking shots at DC, mocking Chris Evans, and poking fun at Will Smith. This article explores the film’s plot and its clever nods to pop culture.
Plot Overview: A Time-Traveling Adventure
As the only Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film hitting theaters this year, Deadpool & Wolverine follows Deadpool on a mission to save Marvel’s Sacred Timeline. Working with the Time Variance Authority (TVA), he travels through various dimensions, encountering Wolverine in an alternate universe and reuniting with former X-Men and villains cast into The Void.
Chris Evans: A Surprising Cameo
One of the film’s most unexpected cameos is Chris Evans. Known for his iconic role as Captain America, Evans surprises audiences by reprising his role as Johnny Storm (Human Torch) from Fantastic Four (2005 and 2007). When Deadpool first encounters Johnny Storm, he mistakes Evans for playing Captain America, with fanboys eagerly urging him to deliver the classic line, “Avengers: Assemble!” from Avengers: Endgame. But once Deadpool realizes the truth, he launches into a string of humorous exchanges, calling Johnny a two-timer. When Johnny meets his untimely end, Deadpool wittily criticizes the producers for spending too much on Evans only to kill him off so soon. Evans expressed excitement about returning as Johnny Storm, stating that the character holds a special place in his heart and that reprising the role felt like a dream come true.
Will Smith’s Oscar Moment
In a standout scene, Deadpool faces off against a TVA agent who mocks Canada, Ryan Reynolds’ homeland. Deadpool quickly sends the agent packing, shouting, “Don’t mention my country’s name!” This line is a humorous nod to Will Smith’s infamous outburst at the 2022 Oscars when he slapped Chris Rock and yelled a similar phrase.
A Celine Dion Connection
After the film’s release, a memorable scene features Deadpool dancing to NSYNC’s classic hit “Bye Bye Bye.” This nostalgic moment quickly gained attention on social media, causing the song to resurface on Spotify charts over two decades after its release. Fans noted a connection to Celine Dion, who performed the soundtrack for Deadpool 2. In a humorous exchange from the previous film, Dion mistakenly calls Deadpool “Spider-Man,” to which he quips, “I should have invited NSYNC.” Including this song serves as a fun tribute to the Canadian singer.
Hugh Jackman’s Height Mocked
Alongside Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds weaves real-life anecdotes to playfully tease his friend throughout the film. Deadpool frequently shouts “Hugh” instead of Wolverine’s name. During his multiverse journey, Deadpool encounters a shorter version of Wolverine, humorously suggesting this is the character’s true form, as Jackman’s towering height often baffles fans and directors alike. In another scene, Deadpool hints at Jackman’s musical theater background, referencing his Broadway role in The Music Man during the film’s production. This lighthearted joke adds humor while paying homage to Jackman’s diverse talents.
A Film Packed with Laughter and Memorable Moments
Deadpool & Wolverine is filled with witty references and playful celebrity banter that keeps audiences entertained. With clever humor and self-aware commentary, the film delivers not only an engaging storyline but also serves as a love letter to the Marvel universe and its iconic characters.