For all its raunchy humor, chaotic action, and meta punchlines, “Deadpool & Wolverine” stands out as an unexpectedly sentimental blockbuster of the summer. Unbeknownst to many, this Marvel extravaganza isn’t just another superhero film but a heartfelt tribute to the defunct 20th Century Fox, a studio integral to the “X-Men” and “Deadpool” franchises before its acquisition by Disney in 2019.

A towering, desert-ensconced 20th Century Fox statue symbolizes the homage, evoking Shelley’s “Ozymandias,” but reimagined for Hollywood nostalgists. Director Shawn Levy poignantly integrates a range of beloved yet sidelined Marvel characters. Familiar faces like Jennifer Garner’s Elektra, Chris Evans’ Human Torch, and Wesley Snipes’ Blade make cameo appearances, giving a nod to the creativity and ambition that characterized Fox’s Marvel endeavors.

Channing Tatum’s long-awaited debut as Gambit stands out as a gentle rib at the studio’s famously protracted development process. However, it’s the ending credits that pull at the heartstrings, with behind-the-scenes footage of past Fox Marvel films set to Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life).” The montage provides a reflective yet fitting conclusion as the torch passes to Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

This heartfelt tribute hasn’t gone unnoticed by industry insiders like Simon Kinberg, a key figure in Fox’s Marvel saga. Kinberg underscores the camaraderie and shared history of those involved in the productions and acknowledges their sense of closure as an era ends. While Fox delivered iconic characters like Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine and generated cultural phenomena, not every film hit the mark critically or commercially.

Ryan Reynolds, who now holds the record for the biggest opening weekend for an R-rated film thanks to “Deadpool & Wolverine,” poignantly reflected on social media, thanking the “fun, weird, uneven, and risky world of 20th Century Fox.” Reynolds’ decision to use his MCU debut as a fond farewell to Fox indicates his deep respect for the studio that launched him into superhero stardom.

What are your thoughts on “Deadpool & Wolverine’s” tribute to 20th Century Fox? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep this discussion alive!

Source: Matt Donnelly