How Deadpool & Wolverine Set the Stage for the MCU’s Mutant Era
In Shawn Levy’s ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, fans are treated to a slew of exciting cameos and appearances from familiar faces. The film features various versions of the titular characters and includes surprising returns from actors seen in previous Fox movies. Notably, Channing Tatum makes an appearance as Gambit, adding a fresh twist to the ensemble.
One of the film’s intriguing elements is how it hints at the upcoming mutant era in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While Marvel Studios has introduced mutants like Kamala Khan in the MCU, her storyline remains underexplored. ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ doesn’t directly set up the MCU’s mutant future but lays the groundwork for integrating Marvel’s mutants into the existing universe.
Image Courtesy: People
The film opens with Ryan Reynolds’ Wade Wilson jumping from Earth-10005 to Earth-616, the main MCU reality, where he attempts to join the Avengers but is turned down by Happy Hogan. This rejection initially depresses Wade, but by the film’s end, he realizes he is content with his own reality. This sets the stage for potential crossovers, as the Avengers could tap into the Multiverse for help if needed.
The film suggests that the Sorcerers at Kamar-Taj might use their magic to traverse worlds, similar to what was seen in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Deadpool’s X-Force team, led by Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, could also be brought into Earth-616, enhancing the MCU’s mutant roster.
Additionally, characters like Dafne Keen’s X-23, Colossus, Shatterstar, and Negasonic Teenage Warhead are part of the X-Force team. Portals could bring in the New Mutants or even the younger versions of Professor Xavier’s original students, such as Cyclops, Jean Grey, Iceman, Beast, and Angel. The upcoming films, including ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’, may require such mutants’ assistance to tackle immense threats.
Image Courtesy: People
The Time Variance Authority (TVA), which has become more lenient in handling timeline disruptions, could facilitate these crossovers. The TVA’s ability to manage incursions could bring in various mutants, from X-Factor to Young X-Men. This approach could also include villains or anti-heroes, such as Magneto or Emma Frost, who might use portals to enter Earth-616.
In summary, while the portals and Multiverse mechanics in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ might seem convenient, they provide a creative way to introduce and integrate mutants into the MCU. This approach could address real-world themes, such as immigration while blending elements from the Fox era with the MCU’s current narrative.
–Farheen Ali
