The third instalment of Deadpool, namely Deadpool & Wolverine, is all set to hit the big screen worldwide on 26 July. And while fans will throng theatres to watch this highly-anticipated Marvel film, there will be audiences who may want to become acquainted with the previous films that reveal the backstories of the latest film’s lead characters.
The previous films of Deadpool and Wolverine shed light on the origins and evolution of the characters, leading up to the latest instalment in the franchise.
Actor Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine began with the 2000 film X-Men and continued through 10 films, including X2: X-Men United (2003) and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). Wolverine’s story was further explored in X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009), with a cameo in X-Men: First Class (2011). His journey continued in The Wolverine (2013), X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014), and X-Men: Apocalypse (2016).
The character’s apparent retirement in Logan (2017) seemed final, but he made a cameo in Deadpool 2 (2018) through unused footage. Wolverine has now returned in the latest film with a new storyline set in MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe).
Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is a Marvel anti-hero known for his iconic humour, fourth-wall-breaking antics, and regenerative healing factor. Portrayed by actor Ryan Reynolds, the character first appeared in X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) and later had his own feature film in Deadpool (2016), followed by the sequel Deadpool 2 (2018).
But you may not need to watch all the above films. We have curated the five essential films we think you must watch if you wish to understand the story better in Deadpool & Wolverine:
- Deadpool (2016)
This first film in the Deadpool franchise introduces us to Wade Wilson as the irreverent, wise-cracking Merc with a Mouth. Breaking away from the traditional superhero mould, he combines sharp humour, intense action and a unique narrative style. The film’s success was a game-changer, proving that R-rated superhero movies could be critically acclaimed and commercially successful. Key moments include the character’s origin story, his tumultuous romance with Vanessa, and his quest for revenge.
- Deadpool 2 (2018)
In this sequel, the character’s world expands significantly as key characters are introduced – Cable, a time-travelling soldier played by actor Josh Brolin, and Domino, a mutant with luck-based powers portrayed by actor Zazie Beetz. The film balances heart and humour as Wade Wilson forms the X-Force, a makeshift team of superheroes, to protect a young mutant named Russell. The film is packed with meta-humour, action sequences, and a surprising emotional depth as the character grapples with loss and family.
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
This film is crucial for understanding Wolverine’s background and significance within the X-Men universe. The actor Jackman as Wolverine plays a central role in this time-travel storyline, where he is sent back to the 1970s to prevent a future where mutants are hunted to extinction. The film merges the original film trilogy cast with the younger versions from X-Men: First Class, offering a rich, layered narrative that explores themes of redemption and change. It’s a pivotal movie for understanding the complex timelines and relationships within the series.
- Logan (2017)
Logan is regarded as one of the best superhero films ever made, offering a gritty, emotional farewell to Jackman’s Wolverine. Set in a dystopian future, the film presents an ageing, weary Wolverine struggling to care for an ailing Professor X while protecting a young mutant, Laura, also known as X-23. The film’s tone is sombre and reflective, delving deep into the character’s vulnerabilities and past traumas. It’s a film that provides significant emotional stakes and a fitting conclusion to Wolverine’s story.
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
Though it received mixed reviews, the film is notable for being the first on-screen meeting between Wolverine and a version of Deadpool. The film explores the former’s early life, including his childhood, his bond with his brother Victor Creed, and the experiments that gave him his adamantium skeleton. It offers an interesting comparison of the more refined portrayals of both characters in later movies, providing context and background that enrich their stories.
Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine is directed by Shawn Levy, and produced by Kevin Feige, Reynolds, Levy and Lauren Shuler Donner. Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, George Dewey and Simon Kinberg served as executive producers. The film is written by Reynolds, Reese, Wernick, Zeb Wells and Levy.