How Deadpool 3 Finds Its Place in the MCU

There is much confusion among fans regarding the inclusion of Deadpool 3 within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While the first two Deadpool films were not distributed through the MCU, Deadpool 3 seems set to bridge this gap, integrating the character and his stories more deeply into the larger Marvel narrative. This article will explore the complex history behind this integration, the role of multiverse concepts, and the implications for future crossover projects.

The Characters and their Rights

The journey of Deadpool within the broader Marvel universe begins with a critical shift in ownership. In 2019, Disney acquired 20th Century Fox, thereby bringing under its umbrella a host of popular characters, including the X-Men. However, the rights for the X-Men were only transferred after the release of Deadpool 2, meaning that the first two Deadpool films were produced under the Fox banner rather than the MCU.

Integration into the MCU

With the acquisition, Marvel Studios gained the legal rights to bring Deadpool into the MCU. However, the integration process was more intricate than simply slotting a character into an existing framework. The directors of these films, including Ryan Reynolds, faced numerous restrictions and had to adhere to licensing agreements. These agreements mandated that the films could not overtly reference the X-Men or the concept of mutants, as these properties were, and still are, under separate ownership.

As a result, Deadpool 1 and Deadpool 2 were carefully crafted to avoid referencing the X-Men franchise directly. For instance, the term 'mutant' could not be used, leading to creative maneuvers within the storyline. In Deadpool 2, for example, the romantic interest Wanda Maximoff, played by Elizabeth Olsen, is referred to as the 'Scarlet Witch' without any mention of mutants or the X-Men connection.

The Multiverse Concept

The multiverse has become a significant element in the current landscape of superhero storytelling. Marvel's increased embrace of this concept allows for the insertion of characters from different universes into the MCU. This is particularly evident in films like Spider-Man: No Way Home, which featured versions of Spider-Man from various dimensions, as well as characters from the X-Men and Fantastic Four franchises.

Deadpool and the Multiverse

Deadpool 3, the upcoming film, is expected to draw more heavily on the multiverse concept. Reports suggest that it will feature characters from the X-Men universe, including Wolverine. It is speculated that the film will be set in a multiverse where Deadpool has created or altered timelines, leading to the inclusion of these characters within the MCU. This narrative approach provides a plausible explanation for how Deadpool can coexist with the X-Men and the larger Avengers-centric MCU.

The presence of the Time Variance Authority (TVA) in the Deadpool 3 trailer is a clear indication of the multiverse theme. Characters like Morbius, Sylvie, and possibly Loki from the Loki series could be involved in resolving the paradoxes created by Deadpool's actions.

Impact on Future Crossovers

The successful integration of Deadpool into the MCU and the use of the multiverse concept pave the way for potential future crossovers involving other X-Men characters. The inclusion of Wolverine in Deadpool 3 opens the door for potential team-ups and storylines that blend the distinct aesthetics and storytelling styles of both franchises. This could lead to a more cohesive and interconnected narrative, enriching the overall Marvel universe.

Conclusion

In summary, the inclusion of Deadpool 3 in the MCU marks a significant milestone for the current Marvel cinematic landscape. While the first two Deadpool films operated outside the MCU, the acquisition of 20th Century Fox by Disney allowed for a seamless integration of the character and his universe into the larger Marvel narrative. The multiverse concept provides a flexible framework for these crossover projects, enabling the incorporation of X-Men characters and storylines that enhance the rich tapestry of the MCU.