Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds Get Real at CinemaCon, No Phones During ‘Deadpool & Wolverine

As the promotional blitz for the much-anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine” picks up pace, stars Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds have a pointed message for cinema-goers: keep your phones silent. This directive came during a not-so-polite PSA that surfaced online following its debut at CinemaCon, capturing the essence of their Marvel characters with a mix of humor and sternness.

The PSA, initially exclusive to CinemaCon attendees, features Jackman’s Wolverine abruptly interrupting Reynolds’ Deadpool as he tries to politely request the audience to silence their phones. Instead, Wolverine bluntly commands,

a line delivered with a series of bleeped expletives, showcasing his notorious short temper. This humorous yet firm reminder reflects the characters’ distinct personalities, blending Deadpool’s irreverence with Wolverine’s gruffness.

The Unique Approach to Movie Etiquette

This year, Marvel Studios has banked everything on “Deadpool & Wolverine,” making it their sole theatrical release. The stakes are high, and the message from Reynolds and Jackman underscores a critical aspect of the cinema experience—respecting the viewing environment. The viral PSA not only addresses common courtesy but also enhances the promotional narrative for the film by embedding the characters’ traits into real-world interactions, a clever move that has resonated with fans online.

Disney Embraces the R-Rated Legacy

The transition of Deadpool from 20th Century Fox to Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) marks a significant shift, particularly in maintaining the character’s R-rated nature. Reynolds expressed his satisfaction with Disney’s decision to preserve the adult content that defines both Deadpool and Wolverine. In an interview with Fandango, he commented on the bold move,

“I’m really proud of them for doing this. It’s a huge step for them, it adds a whole color to this kaleidoscopic wheel that is that company.”

Director Shawn Levy echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of staying true to the essence of Deadpool’s world. Initially skeptical, Levy acknowledged that Disney had shown considerable trust in allowing them to craft a film that does not compromise on the edgy humor and audacity that fans expect.

A New Era for Marvel’s R-Rated Heroes

As “Deadpool & Wolverine” prepares for its global release, the integration of R-rated content into Disney’s portfolio signals a new era for Marvel films. This approach not only caters to long-time adult fans but also sets the stage for more diverse storytelling within the MCU. The anticipation for this film is palpable, with ticket sales already live in select countries and fans eager to experience the dynamic between these two beloved characters.

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s reminder to keep phones silent at theaters might seem like a small aspect of movie etiquette, but it speaks volumes about the immersive experience “Deadpool & Wolverine” aims to offer. As Marvel continues to explore new boundaries, the synergy between character authenticity and audience expectations seems to be at the heart of their strategy, promising a cinematic experience that’s as respectful as it is thrilling.