It’s not often that real-life Hollywood dramas bleed into the fictional realms of blockbuster hits, but ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ seems to be the exception. The movie, starring Ryan Reynolds, has stirred up a buzz, not just for its cinematic thrills but for allegedly incorporating a real-world tiff involving Justin Baldoni. Amid the backdrop of the “It Ends with Us” feud, allegations have surfaced that the film takes a subtle jab at Baldoni, adding a layer of intrigue for fans and critics alike.
The Controversial Quip That Started It All
In a particular scene from ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, Deadpool encounters Nicepool, another character played by Reynolds, leading to an exchange that has since sparked controversy. Deadpool’s quip, “What’s Café Gratitude doing here?” seemingly references Baldoni, known for his commitment to spiritual and communal harmony, often reflected in his professional demeanor. This line has left fans and insiders wondering if Reynolds is poking fun at Baldoni’s persona, or if it’s merely a coincidental choice of words.
This speculation is fueled by a report from The Hollywood Reporter, which recounts an executive’s discomfort during meetings with Baldoni, where she felt pressured to share personal stories of joy, reminiscent of the vibe at Café Gratitude, a restaurant chain known for its organic, plant-based cuisine and spiritually charged atmosphere. Although the film was shot well before these details were published in February 2025, insiders speculate that the line could be an inside joke or a subtle dig used among the cast during production.
The Spiritual Backbone of Justin Baldoni
Justin Baldoni’s adherence to the Baha’i faith deeply influences his approach to life and work, promoting values of unity, equality, and communal harmony. These principles often spill over into his professional environment, creating a unique, albeit sometimes polarizing, atmosphere on set. An individual who collaborated with Baldoni on ‘Five Feet Apart’ highlighted his concern for the emotional and mental well-being of his team, noting an openness and sensitivity in his directing style typically associated with female directors—a contrast that sometimes leads to misunderstandings in gender expectation-driven industries.
Clashing Titans: Baldoni and Blake Lively
The friction reportedly extends to interactions between Baldoni and Blake Lively, co-stars in ‘It Ends with Us’. Sources close to the production describe their relationship as “a perfect storm of opposing personalities.” While Baldoni champions his feminist values, Lively reportedly finds his approach unsettling, adding another layer of complexity to their professional dynamics. This clash of ideals might have indirectly influenced the narrative and character interactions in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, with suggestions that other scenes involving Nicepool also subtly mock Baldoni’s mannerisms and philosophies.
While the true intent behind the “Café Gratitude” joke remains ambiguous, its presence in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine undoubtedly adds an intriguing subplot to the film’s reception. Whether it was a harmless jest or a pointed barb remains a subject of debate among fans and observers. As the discussions continue, both on and off-screen, the intrigue surrounding Reynolds, Baldoni, and the interplay of their public and cinematic personas keeps audiences captivated, eagerly awaiting the next development in this unfolding saga.