Once Upon a Deadpool, the PG-13 recut of Deadpool 2, clocks in at approximately 117 minutes (1 hour and 57 minutes). This is a slight decrease from the original R-rated Deadpool 2’s runtime of around 120 minutes, primarily due to the removal of some of the more graphic violence and the addition of new framing sequences featuring Fred Savage.
A Detailed Look at the Runtime and Content Changes
While the difference in runtime might seem negligible, the impact on the overall experience is more significant than the numbers suggest. The core narrative of Deadpool 2 remains largely intact, but certain violent scenes have been either cut entirely or subtly altered to meet the PG-13 rating requirements. This necessitates trimming some of the original footage and, in turn, slightly reducing the overall viewing time. However, the insertion of the new scenes with Fred Savage, acting as a narrative framing device, partially offsets these cuts. The result is a slightly shorter film with a noticeably different tone.
The movie aimed to be accessible to a wider audience, particularly younger viewers who were previously unable to see Deadpool 2 in theaters. This strategic decision to re-release the film with a lower rating demonstrates the franchise’s adaptability and its desire to tap into new markets. It’s important to note that while the violence is toned down, the signature Deadpool humor, meta commentary, and self-aware antics remain central to the film’s appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 Is Once Upon a Deadpool just Deadpool 2 with some scenes cut?
No. While Once Upon a Deadpool is largely based on Deadpool 2, it’s more than just a simple edit. While some violent scenes are removed or altered, new scenes featuring Fred Savage have been added. These scenes, which satirize the framing device used in the movie “The Princess Bride,” offer a fresh perspective and contribute to the film’s unique identity. It’s a reimagining, not just a censored version.
H3 What rating did Once Upon a Deadpool receive?
Once Upon a Deadpool was rated PG-13 in the United States, making it suitable for teenagers and younger children with parental guidance. This contrasts with the original Deadpool 2’s R rating, which restricted viewing to those 17 and older, or younger children with an adult companion.
H3 How much of the original Deadpool 2 violence was removed?
Significant portions of the most graphic violence were either removed entirely or cleverly altered. For example, instead of showing explicit bloodshed, some scenes might cut away to reaction shots or use comedic visual gags to imply the violence without directly depicting it. The focus shifted from the visceral impact of the violence to its comedic potential.
H3 Are there any differences in the plot between Deadpool 2 and Once Upon a Deadpool?
The core plot remains largely the same: Deadpool must protect a young mutant named Russell Collins (Firefist) from the time-traveling Cable. However, the tone and presentation of the story are adjusted to suit the PG-13 rating. The new scenes with Fred Savage primarily serve as commentary on the narrative and the studio’s decision to create a PG-13 version.
H3 Who came up with the idea to add Fred Savage to the movie?
The idea to incorporate Fred Savage into the movie’s framing device is generally attributed to Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool) and the creative team behind the Deadpool franchise. This meta-humorous approach aligned perfectly with the established tone of the Deadpool films and allowed them to playfully acknowledge the constraints of the PG-13 rating.
H3 Did Fred Savage enjoy filming his scenes for Once Upon a Deadpool?
By all accounts, Fred Savage had a positive experience filming his scenes for Once Upon a Deadpool. He embraced the self-deprecating humor and willingly participated in the playful ribbing aimed at his earlier work, particularly “The Princess Bride.” The production clearly leveraged nostalgia and humor to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience.
H3 Was Once Upon a Deadpool a financial success?
While Once Upon a Deadpool didn’t reach the same box office heights as Deadpool 2, it was still considered a financial success. Given its lower budget (due to primarily reusing existing footage), it generated a healthy return on investment and further expanded the Deadpool brand’s reach.
H3 Was Once Upon a Deadpool released internationally?
Yes, Once Upon a Deadpool was released in several international markets, often serving as an entry point for younger audiences to the Deadpool franchise. The international release strategy allowed the film to capitalize on the global popularity of the Deadpool character and increase its overall revenue.
H3 Were there any charities that benefited from Once Upon a Deadpool?
A portion of the profits from Once Upon a Deadpool was donated to the charity “F* Cancer,” which was subsequently renamed “F* Cancer to Moustache For Kids“. This charitable contribution was a key part of the film’s marketing strategy and aligned with Deadpool’s irreverent and socially conscious persona.
H3 Is there an unrated version of Once Upon a Deadpool available?
No. There is no unrated version of Once Upon a Deadpool that includes all the violence and language from Deadpool 2. The film was specifically created and released as a PG-13 alternative. Fans seeking the original R-rated experience should watch Deadpool 2.
H3 Where can I stream or purchase Once Upon a Deadpool?
Once Upon a Deadpool is typically available for streaming on various platforms, including major subscription services like Disney+ (depending on your region) or available for purchase on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play Movies. Availability may vary based on region and current licensing agreements. Check your preferred streaming or digital storefront for the most up-to-date information.
H3 Will there be another PG-13 Deadpool movie in the future?
While there are no concrete plans for another PG-13 Deadpool movie at the time of writing, the success of Once Upon a Deadpool demonstrates the potential for the franchise to appeal to a broader audience. With Disney acquiring 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios), the future of the Deadpool franchise remains open to new possibilities. Future Deadpool projects could potentially explore different rating options depending on the specific creative vision and strategic goals. The possibility of another PG-13 rated entry isn’t entirely out of the question, especially if it allows for further integration of the character into the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), which generally leans towards less graphic content.
In conclusion, while Once Upon a Deadpool is a slightly shorter cut of Deadpool 2, the new narrative framing and alteration of violent scenes make it a unique and accessible entry point into the Deadpool universe, with a runtime of approximately 117 minutes.