Ryan Reynolds has officially announced a new project that will bring him back together with longtime friend and collaborator Hugh Jackman, as well as Shawn Levy, who directed their previous work in Deadpool & Wolverine. In a recent interview with Variety on its Awards Circuit podcast, Reynolds shared that the three are reuniting, but for a film outside the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This marks a departure from their previous collaborations and a new creative direction for the trio.
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s Collaboration Moves Beyond Marvel
In the interview with Variety, Reynolds revealed that he is working intensely on the script for this new venture, which he has described as a fresh, standalone film. He stated, “I’m spending the year writing. I’m writing a movie for myself, Hugh, and Shawn to do that is not Marvel.” While specific plot details remain under wraps, Reynolds emphasized his commitment to developing an original story for the new film, indicating a more personal involvement in the project’s creation. This hints at a potential shift in his career, as he delves into writing roles that allow him to create stories tailored to his and Jackman’s unique chemistry on screen.
Director Shawn Levy, who has collaborated with both actors in the past, brings years of experience and familiarity to the project. Levy first worked with Jackman on the 2011 sci-fi film Real Steel, a film that has since developed a loyal following and cemented his relationship with Jackman. Levy then partnered with Reynolds for Free Guy in 2021 and The Adam Project in 2022. This creative synergy led to Levy directing Deadpool & Wolverine, which achieved worldwide success, earning a remarkable $1.3 billion at the box office. Reynolds has previously expressed his trust and appreciation for Levy’s vision, mentioning that he was only interested in returning for a third Deadpool film if Levy was the director.
While the team’s past projects were infused with Marvel’s unique brand of humor and action, this new film will represent a distinct artistic departure. With a focus on an original narrative outside the superhero genre, it signals the trio’s interest in exploring different storytelling avenues.
Potential Impact on Future Deadpool Projects and MCU Involvement
As Reynolds devotes 2025 to the writing process, it appears that production for the new film might not begin until 2026. This timeframe raises questions regarding Reynolds’ availability for future Deadpool projects within the MCU. Reynolds has been deeply involved in shaping the creative direction of the Deadpool films, which are known for their unique blend of irreverent humor and action. This new project, however, could indicate a pause in his contributions to future Deadpool storylines.
Disney and Marvel Studios have expressed interest in bringing back Deadpool for additional films and potential crossovers within the MCU, though Reynolds’ commitment to this new film could impact the timeline for these plans. Marvel’s packed release schedule may also contribute to delays in integrating Deadpool further into the MCU. Consequently, fans hoping to see Reynolds reprise his role as Deadpool alongside Jackman’s Wolverine may face a longer wait.
Despite these uncertainties, Reynolds’ decision to pursue an original film with Jackman and Levy has generated considerable excitement among fans eager to see the duo in a different cinematic setting. The collaboration between these three creatives suggests an innovative project that could showcase a new side of both actors’ talents, while Levy’s involvement offers reassurance that the film will maintain a high level of quality and entertainment value.
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SOURCES
Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline