In the wake of the immense success of "Deadpool & Wolverine," Ryan Reynolds has been contemplating a return to the character, albeit not in the form of another standalone film. Despite declaring that he didn't foresee another solo Deadpool movie in his future, sources reveal that Reynolds is quietly developing ideas for an ensemble film featuring X-Men characters alongside Deadpool. This project would see him take on a supporting role rather than center stage, allowing other X-Men characters to shine in unexpected ways.
Ryan Reynolds Explores Fresh Territory with Potential Deadpool and X-Men Crossover
Following the record-breaking performance of "Deadpool & Wolverine," which amassed over $1.3 billion globally, Ryan Reynolds has begun quietly brainstorming new concepts involving the Merc with a Mouth. While previous endeavors positioned Deadpool as the central figure, this time around, Reynolds envisions an ensemble cast where three or four X-Men characters share the spotlight. In this scenario, Deadpool might assume a secondary role, providing fresh opportunities for Marvel's iconic mutants.
The multi-talented actor-producer-writer has expressed interest in ensuring each Deadpool installment carries substantial significance, leading him to explore alternative formats beyond traditional sequels. Sources close to Reynolds mention that one discarded idea involved a low-budget road trip narrative for Deadpool 3. Instead, he's now focusing on integrating X-Men characters into a collaborative storyline, although no specific names have emerged yet.
This venture remains distinct from another potential X-Men movie penned by Hunger Games scribe Michael Lesslie for Marvel Studios. Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her work in Wicked, has openly advocated playing Storm within the MCU; however, casting decisions ultimately rest with Marvel.
Reynolds' exploration aligns with his evolving career trajectory, emphasizing writing and producing over acting. Alongside this effort, he continues refining the script for Boy Band, a Paramount comedy where he intends to star alongside close friend Hugh Jackman. Through these pursuits, Reynolds underscores his dedication to storytelling, asserting that it surpasses his passion for acting.
Moreover, during last month’s Time 100 Summit, Reynolds reiterated his belief that incorporating Deadpool into established teams like the Avengers or X-Men could signify the culmination of his journey. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Deadpool's outsider status, suggesting that granting him membership in such groups might paradoxically undermine his essence.
Though still in nascent stages, this proposed ensemble film exemplifies Reynolds' innovative approach to expanding the Deadpool universe while respecting its core principles.
From a journalistic perspective, Ryan Reynolds' shift towards ensemble storytelling signals a maturation in his creative process. By prioritizing collaborative narratives over singular hero tales, he demonstrates an understanding of audience preferences and industry trends. This evolution highlights his adaptability as both an artist and entrepreneur within Hollywood, potentially paving the way for more nuanced explorations of beloved characters within shared universes. Additionally, it reflects broader shifts in superhero cinema toward more inclusive and interconnected storylines, challenging conventional notions of what constitutes a successful franchise installment.