In the crossover blockbuster, 'Deadpool and Wolverine', no joke was left unchecked, ensuring that both casts and audiences can laugh together without crossing the line.
- Aug 6, 2024
AceShowbiz - The fusion of "Deadpool" and "Wolverine" in a single Marvel film has proven to be a smashing hit, raking in over $824 million worldwide since its release on July 26. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film manages to intertwine comedy and real-life events, featuring jokes that touch on the personal lives of its cast, including Jennifer Garner and Hugh Jackman. According to Levy, every joke was pre-approved by the targets themselves.
Levy, 56, explained to Variety, "We never did a joke about or with anyone that we didn't run by them first." He emphasized that whether the jokes were scripted or ad-libbed, approval from the actors was paramount.
SPOILER ALERT! This included a line where Garner's character, Elektra, dismisses Deadpool's condolences about losing her Daredevil, a nod to her real-life ex-husband, Ben Affleck, who starred as Daredevil in 2004. Garner, 52, and Affleck, 51, were married for a decade before their divorce in 2015.
Jackman's Wolverine also faced off against Deadpool's mockery, with a quip about Wolverine's physique post-divorce. "He's normally shirtless, but he's let himself go since the divorce," Deadpool jests - a reference to Jackman's separation from his wife of 27 years, Deborra-lee Furness, announced in September 2023.
Levy reassured readers that Jackman, along with Garner, found the jokes in good spirits. "It was all in a playful spirit that everyone felt good about. Those lines wouldn't be in the movie if Hugh and Jen didn't think they were funny," Levy remarked.
The film not only triumphs in humor but also serves as a nostalgic tribute, featuring surprise cameos from former Marvel stars like Wesley Snipes, Channing Tatum, Chris Evans, and Dafne Keen. However, despite early discussions, Ben Affleck himself did not make a return as Daredevil. Levy mentioned that while Daredevil was initially considered, Affleck was never actually approached for the role.
Interestingly, the rumor mill added to the film's intrigue. Speculations about a cameo appearance by Taylor Swift stirred the internet, but Levy clarified, "That was one of the loudest rumors that came out of nowhere. It was never true." This unexpected whirl of rumors may have helped keep the film's many surprises under wraps.
"Deadpool & Wolverine" has not only dominated the box office but also managed to balance humor with sensitivity, ensuring that even through its hilarious jabs, no one was left feeling punched down. The film's success is a testament to the delicate art of comedic timing, respect, and, most importantly, permission.
