Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) and Vanessa Carlysle’s (Morena Baccarin) relationship has seen quite a few ups and downs throughout the Deadpool trilogy, and Deadpool & Wolverine introduces yet another surprising twist for the couple.
In the first Deadpool movie, Wade and Vanessa’s passionate romance takes a sudden turn when Wade is diagnosed with cancer and undergoes a drastic experimental treatment that leaves him disfigured. Despite his new appearance, Vanessa stands by him, ready to build a future together.
However, Deadpool 2 takes a darker turn by killing Vanessa off shortly after she and Wade decide to start a family. This choice, known as “fridging,” was heavily criticized, but Vanessa’s return at the end of Deadpool 2 seemed to offer a chance for her to be more than just a plot device for Wade’s character development.
Yet, in Deadpool & Wolverine, we learn that, despite Wade’s efforts to save her and mend their relationship through time travel, Vanessa and Wade have been separated for years. The breakup is attributed to Wade’s failure to join the Avengers, which leads him into a deep depression. Vanessa’s decision to end their relationship is portrayed as being influenced by Wade’s emotional struggles and lack of success, which is a tough look for her character.
To add to the awkwardness, Vanessa makes a cutting remark about Wade’s failed attempts to prove himself as a hero, even though he went back in time to prevent her death. This comment seems out of place given her previous acceptance of the situation. It also feels inconsistent with her character’s development since the end of Deadpool 2.
The Deadpool trilogy appears to continue making the same mistake with Vanessa’s role. In Deadpool & Wolverine, her absence primarily serves as a motivational tool for Wade’s actions. Even when Wade sacrifices himself heroically, their reunion at the end of the movie feels more like a predictable resolution than a meaningful development.
Let’s hope that Deadpool 4 offers Morena Baccarin’s Vanessa a more substantial role, allowing her to be more than just a catalyst for Wade’s character arc and giving her a chance to shine beyond being a source of conflict or a backdrop to Wade’s heroism.
