‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Director Shawn Levy Says Film Requires No “Prior Research” of Marvel Cinematic Universe

With numerous films and TV series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s a daunting proposition for a newcomer to even think about getting caught up on the various characters and storylines.

But Shawn Levy, who directed the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine, says there will be no “homework” required to enjoy his film.

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“I was a good student in school. I’ll do my homework as an adult. But I am definitely not looking to do homework when I go to the movies,” Levy told the Associated Press.

He added that his goal was to make the already established fans happy but also create a movie that anyone can enjoy.

“I very much made this film with certainly a healthy respect and gratitude towards the rabid fan base that has peak fluency in the mythology and lore of these characters and this world,” he said. “But I didn’t want to presume that. This movie is built for entertainment, with no obligation to come prepared with prior research.”

The movie sees Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds, and Wolverine, played by Hugh Jackman, reunite on the big screen for the first time since 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine. (It’s also a reunion for the actors and Levy, who previously directed Reynolds in 2021’s Free Guy and Jackman in 2011’s Real Steel.)

Since then, Jackman’s character (warning: seven-year-old spoiler alert ahead!) died in 2017’s Logan. But the folks behind Deadpool & Wolverine say that the new film won’t pose a conflict with the MCU canon or the character’s continuity.

“It’s a really interesting duo,” Levy told the AP. “They’re built for huge conflict with each other because they’re so different individually. But that makes for a very interesting story, because the best two-hander stories, whether it’s Midnight Run or 48 Hours or Planes, Trains and Automobiles, yes, it’s littered with conflict. But it’s ultimately about something more as well and that’s what audiences will see.”

Levy acknowledged the level of secrecy — and unconfirmed rumors, including speculation about a Taylor Swift cameo — but is keeping the details of the film close to the vest.

“The rumors around this movie are overwhelming,” Levy said, but added that fans should just buckle up and enjoy: “The movie is built for audience delight,” he said. “I think that (they’re) in for a very fun ride.”

Deadpool & Wolverine hits theaters July 26.

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