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Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds Star in "Deadpool & Wolverine" Movie
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This image released by 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios shows Hugh Jackman as Wolverine/Logan, left, and Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool/Wade Wilson in a scene from "Deadpool & Wolverine." (20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios via AP)

Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds Star in "Deadpool & Wolverine" Movie

July 23rd, 2024

In the latest addition to the Marvel cinematic realm, "Deadpool & Wolverine" joins the audaciously self-aware Deadpool with the melancholic might of Wolverine, blending hyper-violence with meta-humor to create an action-packed spectacle. Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds shine in their respective roles, embracing the complicated dynamic between their characters. The film not only caters to long-standing fans through its rich interplay of intertextual references but it also remains accessible to the uninitiated, making it a broadly appealing summer blockbuster. Shawn Levy, directing his first Marvel film, navigates the delicate balance of honoring genre conventions while still poking fun at them, producing a visually impressive and entertaining narrative. "Deadpool & Wolverine" marks a significant point in the franchise's history, post Disney's acquisition of 20th Century Fox, enabling Deadpool to step into the sprawling Marvel Cinematic Universe and exploit its potential for both epic action and biting satire. Despite occasional lapses into clichéd plot devices and a sometimes meandering storyline, the movie provides sufficient excitement and satirical edge to keep audiences engaged. Its R-rated bravado is maintained, delivering both laughs and thrills in its climax. The film subtly comments on the broader state of superhero cinema, hinting that quality over quantity could be the antidote to the much-discussed 'superhero fatigue.' With a runtime of 127 minutes and an R rating for its explicit content, "Deadpool & Wolverine" solidifies itself as a wickedly fun addition to the genre.
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💭 Discussion Questions


1
. How does 'Deadpool & Wolverine' balance genre conventions with its own subversive style according to the article?
2
. In what ways does Shawn Levy's directorial approach contribute to the success of the film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
3
. What commentary on the state of superhero cinema is implied in 'Deadpool & Wolverine', and how might this perspective impact future superhero films?

📖 Vocabulary


🌐 Cultural context


The article is about a Marvel superhero film featuring iconic characters from American comic books. It relates to US pop culture, particularly the superhero genre, which has global recognition due to its dominant presence in international cinema and entertainment media. Marvel is known for its interconnected cinematic universe.

🧠 Further reading


List of American superhero films
The world of superhero films is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide array of characters and stories that have made their way from the pages of comic books to the silver screen. American film studios have produced numerous superhero films over the years, drawing inspiration from various comic book publishers. These include blockbuster films based on DC Comics and Marvel Comics characters, which have established extensive cinematic universes. In addition to these giants, there are also films based on characters from Archie Comics, Boom! Studios, Dark Horse Comics, Harvey Comics, IDW Publishing, Image Comics, and Oni Press. Seeing the global interest in this genre, it's worth noting that India has developed its own set of superhero films, which are celebrated within its culture. The superhero craze isn't limited to films alone. Television series both animated and live-action have been depicting superheroes for several decades, contributing to the genre's popularity. These series have been based on comics, comic strips, and even video games, showcasing a rich variety of origins. The influence of superhero tales extends into other sub-genres and branches of film as well. There are lists dedicated to specific types of films such as martial arts, mixed martial arts, ninja, and sword and sorcery, which all feature elements of heroism and action commonly found in superhero narratives. Additionally, the superhero film phenomenon touches upon various science fiction themes, seen in classifications such as science fiction action, comedy, horror, as well as films with apocalyptic, dystopian, and extraterrestrial elements. For those interested in exploring further or researching this expansive genre, IMDb provides a list of American superhero films. This resource is an essential touchstone for fans and scholars alike to delve into the superhero cinema and its ever-growing canon.

Satire
Satire is an artistic technique often found in various cultural forms such as memes, music, literature, and films, aiming to critique and provoke thought by highlighting societal issues through humor and wit. It commonly employs a range of rhetorical strategies, including irony, sarcasm, and exaggeration, to confront and ridicule failings or misconduct among individuals, institutions, or broader society. Satirists often pretend to praise or accept the behaviors or ideas they are actually criticizing, a practice that intensifies their critical message. The etymology of the term "satire" comes from ancient roots. The Latin word "satur" suggesting "fullness" combined with "lanx"—a word indicating a platter of various fruits—led to the idea of a mixed dish of subjects tackled together in satire, although some debate exists regarding the exact interpretation of these Latin terms. Quintilian, an authority on Roman rhetoric, described satire as a uniquely Roman creation distinguished by its use of hexameter verses. However, modern understanding acknowledges the influence of earlier Greek forms, particularly the Old Comedy of Aristophanes, on the development of satire.

List of highest-grossing media franchises
In the realm of entertainment, numerous media franchises have achieved staggering commercial success, with some surpassing the $2 billion revenue mark. Among these are icons of the comic industry, renowned manga series, and captivating light novels that have captured the imaginations of readers worldwide. Video game franchises also hold a significant position in this league, boasting impressive sales figures that reflect their popularity. The film industry, too, has its own collection of high-achievers, with lists that categorize the most lucrative films. These include rankings based on overall box office revenue, as well the most successful films within the United States. Additionally, there are records of films that have garnered massive numbers of viewers through box office admissions. Animation enjoys a special place in cinematic history with its own list of high-grossing films. In the context of international cinema, Japanese films stand out, securing a list that highlights their financial achievements. Furthermore, non-English films have also drawn substantial box office success, indicating a global appreciation for diverse cinematic offerings. These lists encapsulate the financial triumphs of the world's most beloved and profitable media franchises.