The X-Factor: Kevin Feige on "Deadpool & Wolverine," the Future of the MCU, and Embracing the "Embarrassment of Riches"
The arrival of "Deadpool & Wolverine" marks a watershed moment for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), ushering in a new era of intertwined storytelling, beloved characters, and expansive possibilities. In a recent interview with io9, Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, unveiled intriguing insights into the upcoming film’s impact on the MCU, its relationship to "Logan," and the future of franchises like Spider-Man and X-Men.
Feige candidly admitted that, while the acquisition of Fox in 2017 hinted at the possibility of integrating iconic characters like X-Men and Fantastic Four, the reality of it felt far off. "Until something’s actually in our hands, we don’t consider it real," he shared, highlighting the focus on completing "Infinity War" and "Endgame."
The integration of "Logan" into "Deadpool & Wolverine" proves particularly interesting. Feige emphasized the importance of respecting the narrative of "Logan" and avoiding any attempt to negate or diminish its impact. "We didn’t want to undo anything from that movie, we didn’t want to erase it. We didn’t want to, in any way, besmirch the honor of that great feature," he stated firmly. This approach ensures a seamless and respectful merging of these two distinct narratives.
The Impact of "Deadpool & Wolverine" on the MCU
Asked to quantify the impact of "Deadpool & Wolverine" on the MCU using a scale of 1-10, with "Endgame" as a 10 and "Infinity War" as a 9, Feige settled on an 8, indicating its significant influence. This film acts as a gateway to new realms, opening the door to further exploration of the X-Men and their influence on the established MCU landscape.
The Future of Spider-Man and the X-Men
Looking ahead, Feige confirmed that work on the next Spider-Man film is underway with screenwriter(s) delivering a draft soon. The project promises to carry forward the multiversal themes introduced in "No Way Home," exploring further the interconnected web of realities and the impact on Peter Parker’s journey.
Addressing the complex question of character selection and tone in future X-Men projects, Feige embraces the challenge, referring to the plethora of options as an "embarrassment of riches." He hints at integrating characters from the previous Fox films, including those who have yet to appear on screen.
"You probably see a mix of characters you’ve seen before and characters you’ve never seen before," he hinted, suggesting a blend of familiar faces and fresh interpretations. He draws inspiration from the successful revival of "X-Men ’97," noting the audience’s fondness for revisiting these characters, particularly appreciating the "soap opera elements" inherent to the franchise.
A Reflected Reality: The Kevin Feige Lego Minifigure
In a lighter moment, Feige discussed the honor of having his own Lego minifigure, a testament to his impact on the world of entertainment. He jokingly commented on the figure’s accessory choices, suggesting a preference for coffee over shawarma and hot dogs. The playful interaction reveals a relatable side to the powerful figurehead of Marvel Studios.
Conclusion: A New Era of Collaboration and Expansion
With "Deadpool & Wolverine" paving the way, the MCU is poised to embark on a bold new chapter, incorporating diverse characters, storylines, and tones. Feige’s remarks highlight the strategic approach Marvel Studios takes, respecting previous narratives while ensuring seamless integration and expansion. He emphasizes the collaborative nature of the process, embracing the "embarrassment of riches" that comes with such a vast and beloved universe.
The future of the MCU holds immense potential for surprise and excitement, with the X-Men and Spider-Man poised to play pivotal roles in shaping the ongoing narrative. As Feige reveals, the MCU is constantly evolving, embracing its heroes, its complexities, and its boundless possibilities.
