Beyond the Merc with a Mouth: Exploring the Unseen Deadpools of "Deadpool & Wolverine"
The cinematic universe of "Deadpool & Wolverine" was a wild ride, full of meta-humor, fourth-wall breaks, and, of course, multiverse shenanigans. While the film delivered a spectacle of mayhem and laughs, there was also a universe of unseen and discarded ideas that never made it to the screen. Now, thanks to concept artists like David Masson and Andy Park, we are getting a glimpse into these discarded ideas, revealing alternate versions of the titular characters and their surprising potential impact on the film’s narrative.
One of the most intriguing reveals was the concept of "Wolverinepool" by David Masson. This intriguing variant envisioned Wade Wilson wearing Logan’s iconic outfit, but with a distinct Deadpool twist – his own colors and style. This concept would have raised some interesting questions about the film’s narrative. Would Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have shared the character, or would the film have explored a different actor for this unique take on the iconic hero?
Another intriguing concept, also from Masson, was "Punkpool". This rocker variant, with studs and spikes across his suit, evokes a distinct punk rock aesthetic, reminiscent of characters like Spider-Punk. The concept was intriguing due to its potential for an exciting visual and narrative contrast with the film’s central "Deadpool" persona. One can imagine the visual appeal of Punkpool wielding twin guitars instead of katanas, potentially creating a unique dynamic within the chaotic multiverse setting.
Andy Park, another talented concept artist, introduced his own unique takes on Deadpool. One such concept, "Robpool," was presented as an homage to co-creator Rob Liefeld. This version embodies the quintessential Liefeld aesthetic, featuring "exaggerated muscles," "pouches," "swords," "shoulder pads," and the "original costume color breakups and eye shapes." This visual homage to the original Deadpool designs would have been a fun nod to those who appreciate the character’s comic book origins.
Park also explored the possibility of Deadpool entering the Marvel Comics Universe. This concept, which involved a "fun sequence" of changes to Deadpool’s costume, involved the Merc with a Mouth meeting different Avengers, each inspired by legendary comic book artists. While this concept was not incorporated into the film, it reveals the filmmakers’ willingness to explore the multiverse and its possibilities, suggesting they could have potentially taken the story further through a series of comic book-inspired visuals.
The concept art shared by Masson and Park offers a glimpse into the vibrant and eclectic universes that could have been. The unseen variants and alternate visual styles reveal the depth and potential of the film’s creative process. While they may not have made it to the screen, they offer a glimpse into the creative minds behind the film, showcasing the diverse ideas that were explored during the film’s development.
This peek behind the curtain not only highlights the vibrant and imaginative nature of the project but also underscores the intricate creative process in filmmaking. It demonstrates how even discarded ideas can provide compelling insights into the thought process and potential storylines that could have shaped the film. As these concepts are showcased, one can’t help but wonder what these alternate versions of the characters would have brought to the "Deadpool & Wolverine" experience.
The concept art for "Deadpool & Wolverine," soon to be collected in an official art book, offers a unique glimpse into the world-building process of a blockbuster film. It reminds us that there’s always more to explore beyond what appears on the screen, and the imagination of artists and creators never truly runs dry, even when their concepts are ultimately set aside. The creativity and imagination found within these discarded ideas are a testament to the power of collaboration and the ongoing evolution of beloved characters within the ever-expanding world of cinema.
