What Marvel movies should I watch before ‘Deadpool and Wolverine?’

It seems Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are about to make a major impact with Deadpool & Wolverine, and their return is loaded with references and nods to the Fox X-Men universe that came before. To fully appreciate their grand comeback, here’s a breakdown of the essential films to revisit:

1. X-Men (2000): Bryan Singer’s original film introduces Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, setting the stage for his iconic role. The movie also showcases the complex dynamics between Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and Magneto (Ian McKellen), making it a crucial piece of the X-Men universe.
2. X2: X-Men United (2002): This sequel ramps up the stakes with a thrilling opening and deepens the relationships between characters, especially Wolverine and Jean Grey. It also introduces new mutant powers and further explores the tension between mutants and humans.
3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009): Despite its shortcomings, this film is essential for understanding the backstory of Wolverine and Deadpool’s initial, albeit flawed, interaction. It sets up many jokes and references for Deadpool.
4. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014): This time-travel epic merges the original trilogy with the rebooted cast, including a younger Professor X (James McAvoy) and Wolverine. It’s a pivotal film for understanding the complex timeline of the X-Men universe.
5. Deadpool (2016): Ryan Reynolds’ first outing as Deadpool reinvigorated the superhero genre with its meta-humor and irreverence. It also establishes Deadpool’s character and his unique relationship with the X-Men universe.
6. Logan (2017): This film provides a gritty, emotional conclusion to Wolverine’s saga, showcasing a future where the character is worn down and struggling. It’s a powerful, standalone film that sets a high bar for Logan’s character arc.
7. Deadpool 2 (2018): The sequel continues the irreverent humor and action of the first film, and it playfully engages with the X-Men universe and the aftermath of Logan. It’s a must-watch before diving into Deadpool & Wolverine.

Revisiting these films will not only enhance your understanding of Deadpool & Wolverine but also provide a nostalgic look at the evolution of these beloved characters. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the X-Men universe, these movies offer a comprehensive view of the journey leading up to this exciting new chapter.