Deadpool vs. X-Men: Ryan Reynolds is planning a joint film!

After the overwhelming success of "Deadpool & Wolverine", which became the most successful R-rated film of all time with worldwide box office takings of 1.38 billion dollars, expectations for the next "Deadpool" movie are naturally high. Insider sources from the renowned industry magazine The Hollywood Reporter are now reporting that Ryan Reynolds is apparently planning a joint film with the X-Men!

To be more precise, there will no longer be a classic "Deadpool" solo story, but an ensemble film in which Deadpool appears but is not the focus. Instead, other X-Men characters who have previously been more in the background will be given more space. Reynolds hopes that this will allow new characters to make surprising appearances, as was the case with Gambit in "Deadpool & Wolverine".

Specific characters have not yet been named. However, Oscar-nominated actress Cynthia Erivo's desire to portray Storm is causing speculation. Reynolds had publicly acknowledged Erivo together with Ariana Grande at an event – possibly a subtle hint at future casting plans. Ultimately, however, it would still be up to Marvel to cast the characters. The previous "Deadpool" films have already featured several X-Men, including Colossus, Sabretooth and Pyro. Reynolds also managed to convince Hugh Jackman to make a comeback as Wolverine.

The potential film would be independent of the also planned "X-Men" project, which is currently being written by "The Hunger Games"-author Michael Lesslie. Reynolds is currently working on initial scripts independently of Marvel and is busy tinkering with ideas before presenting them to the studio. This approach is nothing new: "Deadpool & Wolverine" already went through several concept phases – including a low-budget road trip idea. Despite his proximity to the big superhero teams, Deadpool remains a character who moves on the fringes – on purpose. Quote Reynolds:

"His ultimate dream is to be accepted and appreciated. But he can't be accepted. His coping mechanism of deflecting shame through humor works only when used to pave over his many inadequacies. If and when he does become an Avenger or X-Man, we're at the end of his journey."

Whether the big crossover between Deadpool and the X-Men will actually happen remains to be seen.

Deadpool – The anti-hero the world loves

Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is one of the most fascinating and unconventional characters in the Marvel universe. Since his first appearance in 1991 in The New Mutants #98, the red-and-black mercenary with the big mouth has developed into a genuine cult character. But what makes Deadpool so special and why is he so popular around the world today?

An antihero with charm and flaws

Unlike classic superheroes such as Spider-Man, Captain America or Superman, Deadpool is not your typical saviour in shining armour. He is an anti-hero - a character who moves morally in grey areas, whose actions are often selfish or brutal and who nevertheless has a certain sense of justice. This is exactly what makes him more tangible and interesting for many fans than flawless hero figures.

Wade Wilson's backstory is tragic: a former mercenary who undergoes experimental treatment to cure his cancer, but is disfigured and psychologically altered in the process. He is given superhuman healing powers, but at the same time suffers from severe psychological problems and a torn personality. This inner conflict makes him human and complex – a hero who suffers, makes mistakes, but carries on regardless.

Humour as a trademark

What sets Deadpool apart from almost all other comic book characters is his unique sense of humour. He regularly breaks the fourth wall, speaks directly to the reader or viewer and pokes fun at himself as well as the entire superhero genre. This meta-humour makes him the perfect mouthpiece for criticism, satire and self-irony.

This humour proves to be a recipe for success, especially in the feature films, brilliantly embodied by Ryan Reynolds. The first "Deadpool" film (2016) surprised with its irreverent, cheeky style and became a huge box office success despite its R rating. It proved that superhero films can also work beyond the family-friendly formula.

A mirror of modern pop culture

Deadpool also embodies postmodern pop culture in its purest form: fragmented, ironic, critical of the media. He quotes films, series, music, comics and current social issues, often in a wild, deliberately chaotic mix. This makes him seem like a product of our times – a hero who not only lives in a fictional world, but also comments on the real world.

His popularity is therefore also linked to the desire of many people to see heroes who are not perfect, but have flaws, scrutinise themselves and question the big picture. Deadpool therefore also symbolises a generation that has had enough of smooth, unapproachable heroes.

Inclusivity and breaking taboos

Another reason for Deadpool's popularity is his openness. His sexuality is fluid, his views are unconventional and his portrayal breaks many social taboos. Deadpool is not afraid to cross boundaries – be it in language, behaviour or morals. Breaking taboos like this has a liberating effect for many and gives people the feeling that they too can be accepted with their idiosyncrasies.

Conclusion: The hero no one wanted – and everyone loves

Deadpool is a hero against his will, an outsider in the superhero world who has become so popular precisely because of his flaws, his humour and his humanity. At a time when authenticity, self-irony and critical thinking are increasingly valued, Deadpool hits a nerve. He is loud, vulgar, irreverent – and that is precisely why he is so important. Because he shows that heroes don't have to be perfect to be loved.