Calling all Marvel fans! With the highly-anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine” movie on the horizon, it’s time to brush up on your X-Men knowledge and get ready for a wild ride. This movie is rumored to be a farewell to the Fox X-Men universe, and it might even touch on some past Marvel movies. To make sure you catch all the jokes, references, and epic moments, here are 12 movies you absolutely can’t miss:
1. X-Men (2000): This is where it all began! “X-Men” introduced us to Professor X’s school for mutants, a safe haven for people with special abilities facing prejudice. We meet Wolverine, a gruff loner with adamantium claws, and Charles Xavier, a powerful telepath who believes humans and mutants can coexist. This movie sets the stage for the entire X-Men universe.
2. X2: X-Men United (2003): The X-Men face a new threat: a military leader who wants to wipe out mutants. This movie brings together Professor X’s team with Magneto, a powerful mutant who believes mutants are superior and should rule humanity. We also see the return of Wolverine, who continues to struggle with his past.
3. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006): Things get serious in this movie. A cure for mutation is developed, creating a divide between those who want to be “normal” and those who embrace their mutant identity. Jean Grey, a powerful telekinetic mutant, grapples with a dark entity called the Phoenix, leading to a tragic showdown.
4. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): This movie delves into Wolverine’s mysterious past. We learn about his adamantium claws and his connection to a secret government program. We also meet other mutants like Deadpool (but not quite the Deadpool we know and love yet!)
5. X-Men: First Class (2011): This prequel takes us back to the 1960s and explores the early days of the X-Men and Magneto’s Brotherhood of Mutants. We see the rise of Professor X and Magneto’s friendship that eventually crumbles due to their differing views on humans and mutants.
6. The Wolverine (2013): Wolverine travels to Japan to meet an old friend, but things get complicated when he gets tangled up with yakuza (Japanese gangsters), ninjas, and a dangerous new enemy. This movie throws light on Wolverine’s immortality and the burden it carries.
7. Deadpool (2016): This is where things get crazy! Deadpool is a hilarious, foul-mouthed mercenary with a healing factor that makes him almost unkillable. After a disfiguring experiment, he sets out for revenge with his swords and his signature red and black suit.
8. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014): The future looks bleak for mutants! In a desperate attempt to change a dystopian timeline where humans hunt mutants, Wolverine is sent back in time to prevent a pivotal event. This movie is a crossover between the original X-Men cast and the younger cast from “X-Men: First Class.”
9. Logan (2017): This movie takes a darker and more emotional turn. An aging Wolverine cares for a sickly Professor X while facing off against a ruthless corporation that wants to exploit mutant children. This is Hugh Jackman’s last hurrah as Wolverine, and it’s a powerful send-off for the character.
10. Deadpool 2 (2018): Our favorite anti-hero is back for more action and laughs! This time, Deadpool forms a team (X-Force… kind of) to protect a young mutant from a dangerous enemy. Expect even more jokes, violence, and pop-culture references.
11. Once Upon a Deadpool (2018): This is a PG-13 reimagining of “Deadpool 2” with a whole new narrative, complete with musical numbers and a surprising twist. It’s a fun and wacky way to experience the story with a less mature audience.
12. Logan Noir (2020): This black-and-white short film reimagines a scene from “Logan” as a classic film noir detective story. It’s a cool bonus for fans of the movie and a unique way to see Wolverine in a different light.
So, you’ve seen the movies, what’s next?
With these 12 (and a bonus!) movies under your belt, you’ll be well-equipped to appreciate all the references and inside jokes in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience:
- Brush up on your X-Men comics: The movies take inspiration from decades of comic book stories. While you don’t need to be a comic book expert, familiarizing yourself with some key characters and storylines can add another layer of enjoyment.
- Pay attention to the relationships: The bond between Wolverine and Professor X, the rivalry between Professor X and Magneto, and the unique dynamic between Deadpool and pretty much everyone are central to the X-Men universe.
- Embrace the humor: Deadpool is known for his fourth-wall-breaking jokes and pop-culture references. Be prepared for some outrageous humor and unexpected twists.
- Get ready for action: These movies are packed with exciting fight scenes and mutant showdowns. Prepare to be wowed by Wolverine’s claws, Deadpool’s acrobatics, and the various powers of the X-Men.
Looking for more? Here are some additional resources to delve deeper into the X-Men universe:
- The internet is your friend: There are countless websites and fan communities dedicated to X-Men. You can find character profiles, in-depth discussions about the movies, and even fan theories about what to expect in “Deadpool & Wolverine.”
- Documentaries and behind-the-scenes content: Dive behind the scenes with documentaries and special features on the X-Men movies. Learn about the filmmaking process, hear from the actors and directors, and discover interesting tidbits about the characters and stories.
With a little preparation and a lot of excitement, you’re all set to enjoy “Deadpool & Wolverine” to the fullest! Whether you’re a longtime X-Men fan or a newcomer to the world of mutants, this movie promises to be a wild and entertaining ride. So grab your popcorn, settle in for a marathon movie session, and get ready to experience the epic world of Deadpool and Wolverine!
