The “Deadpool Christmas movie,” formally known as Once Upon a Deadpool, clocks in at a running time of approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes (97 minutes). This holiday-themed recut of Deadpool 2 offers a PG-13 alternative to the original R-rated mayhem, sprinkled with festive cheer and a framing device involving Fred Savage.
Diving Deeper: Understanding “Once Upon a Deadpool”
While it’s popularly called the “Deadpool Christmas movie,” it’s crucial to understand its true nature. Once Upon a Deadpool isn’t a brand new, standalone film. Instead, it’s a re-edited version of Deadpool 2 made specifically to appeal to a broader audience and introduce younger viewers to the Merc with a Mouth. This reframing included softening some of the more violent scenes and adding a humorous narrative framework.
The Fred Savage Factor: A Nostalgic Twist
The ingenious addition of Fred Savage, reprising his role from The Princess Bride, serves as a key component. His scenes provide humorous commentary on the film’s events and help transition between the more sanitized versions of the original footage. This framing device is arguably one of the film’s most memorable and talked-about aspects.
Rating and Audience: Who is it for?
The move to a PG-13 rating was a significant change. Deadpool 2 was distinctly R-rated, known for its graphic violence and adult humor. Once Upon a Deadpool tones down these elements, making it accessible to a wider audience, including younger viewers who may have been previously excluded. While still retaining the core humor and personality of Deadpool, the violence is less graphic and explicit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Once Upon a Deadpool”
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding “Once Upon a Deadpool,” helping to clarify its content, purpose, and legacy.
FAQ 1: Is “Once Upon a Deadpool” Just a Recut of “Deadpool 2”?
Yes, “Once Upon a Deadpool” is primarily a recut of Deadpool 2. However, it’s more than just a simple edit. It includes new scenes featuring Fred Savage that frame the narrative and provide comedic relief. Some violent scenes were either cut or altered to achieve a PG-13 rating.
FAQ 2: What’s the Difference Between “Deadpool 2” and “Once Upon a Deadpool”?
The primary differences lie in the rating and the added scenes. Deadpool 2 is R-rated and contains graphic violence, strong language, and adult themes. Once Upon a Deadpool is PG-13, meaning the violence is toned down, some language is removed, and it includes the Fred Savage framing device, creating a more family-friendly experience (relatively speaking, for a Deadpool movie).
FAQ 3: Is the Story in “Once Upon a Deadpool” Different?
The core plot of Deadpool 2 remains intact in Once Upon a Deadpool. Wade Wilson still grapples with the loss of Vanessa, forms the X-Force, and protects the young mutant Russell Collins/Firefist from Cable. The narrative beats are largely the same, but the way they are presented is altered.
FAQ 4: Does “Once Upon a Deadpool” Have an End Credits Scene?
Yes, Once Upon a Deadpool features an end-credits scene. While many end-credits scenes in superhero movies offer hints about future installments, the one in Once Upon a Deadpool is more focused on humor and meta-commentary, fitting the film’s overall tone. It is slightly different from the Deadpool 2 end credits scene.
FAQ 5: Was “Once Upon a Deadpool” Successful?
Commercially, “Once Upon a Deadpool” was moderately successful. While it didn’t reach the same box office heights as Deadpool 2, it still generated revenue, particularly during the holiday season. More importantly, it broadened the Deadpool brand’s appeal and demonstrated the potential for PG-13 superhero content within the existing franchise.
FAQ 6: Is “Once Upon a Deadpool” Available on Streaming Services?
Availability varies depending on your region and the streaming platform’s licensing agreements. Check platforms like Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime Video in your area to see if “Once Upon a Deadpool” is available to stream or rent.
FAQ 7: Did the Money Made From “Once Upon a Deadpool” Go to Charity?
A portion of the proceeds from “Once Upon a Deadpool” was donated to charity. Specifically, a dollar from every ticket sold was donated to the organization “F* Cancer,” which was temporarily renamed “F* Cancer” in honor of the film’s release.
FAQ 8: Is “Once Upon a Deadpool” Considered Canon in the Deadpool Movie Universe?
The canonicity of Once Upon a Deadpool is somewhat ambiguous. While it retells the events of Deadpool 2, the framing device with Fred Savage exists outside the main storyline. It’s generally accepted as a fun, non-canonical alternative version. The Deadpool franchise is known for breaking the fourth wall and embracing meta-commentary, making strict canonicity less of a priority.
FAQ 9: Why Was “Once Upon a Deadpool” Made?
The main reasons for creating “Once Upon a Deadpool” were to broaden the franchise’s audience appeal with a PG-13 rating, offer a holiday-themed alternative to Deadpool 2, and potentially test the waters for future PG-13 superhero projects. It also served as a creative exercise in re-imagining existing material.
FAQ 10: Does “Once Upon a Deadpool” Have More Scenes With Fred Savage Than the Trailers Show?
Yes, Once Upon a Deadpool includes several scenes featuring Fred Savage. While the trailers showcased some of these interactions, the film contains even more dialogue and comedic moments between Savage and Deadpool, further enhancing the framing device.
FAQ 11: Are There Any Significant Scenes Cut From the Original “Deadpool 2” in “Once Upon a Deadpool”?
Several scenes featuring graphic violence were either cut or significantly altered. Some of the bloodier deaths and more intense fight sequences were toned down to achieve the PG-13 rating. Some jokes that were deemed too risqué were also removed or reworded.
FAQ 12: Will There Be a “Once Upon a Deadpool 2”?
As of now, there are no publicly announced plans for a “Once Upon a Deadpool 2.” With the upcoming Deadpool 3 being integrated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the focus seems to be on exploring new narratives and characters within that context. However, the success of the first Once Upon a Deadpool leaves the door open for similar projects in the future. The unpredictable nature of the Deadpool franchise means anything is possible.