What Does Deadpool Mean by “I’ve Never Said This But Don’t Swallow” in Deadpool (2016)?

In the 2016 superhero film Deadpool, the titular character, played by Ryan Reynolds, is known for his clever, often inappropriate, and sexual humor. One of the most memorable lines from the film is:

I’ve never said this before, but don’t swallow.”

The Context and Meaning

The context in which this line appears is crucial to understanding its meaning. In the movie, Deadpool is talking to a goon named Francis, whom he is beating up. He is using this moment as a way to scare Francis and, at the same time, make a humorous and explicit joke.

Deadpool is notorious for his inappropriate and salacious remarks, often blurring the lines between humor and outright sexual references. Here, he is addressing the idea of a sexual act—one that he, Deadpool, is implying is expected to be performed.

However, he is telling Francis to hold back and not participate in the tainted act. This line humorously plays on the audience’s expectations and the context of the scene. The humor is heightened because Deadpool often encourages the performance of sexual acts. In this case, he is subverting these expectations by withholding.

Subverting Expectations

The humor comes from the juxtaposition of Deadpool’s usual behavior—a character who often encourages and even participates in sexual acts—and his deliberate refusal here. This contrast creates a stark regression of sorts, making the joke even more potent and entertaining.

Further Analysis

The phrase also has a deeper meaning, especially for those who understand the context of the movie's universe. The movie is a cinematographic adaptation, and the character of Deadpool exists within a world where he is able to perform actions that would otherwise be impossible. The suggestion to not swallow can be interpreted as a metaphor for not taking in the poison of the situation, much like Deadpool is trying to shield Francis from the reality of the moment.

Conclusion

In summary, when Deadpool says “I’ve never said this before, but don’t swallow,” he is both subverting audience expectations and creating a humorous situation. He is using the context of his character’s usual behavior to make an explicit joke, and by doing so, he adds layers of meaning and complexity to the scene.

The line is a testament to Ryan Reynolds’s acting and Deadpool's scriptwriting, as it deftly balances humor, sexual tension, and a moment of character growth. It is a prime example of how Deadpool uses his brand of humor to engage his audience and keep them entertained.