Superhero movies often bridge generations, offering entertainment for families who’ve grown up on comics, cartoons, and the ever-expanding world of cinematic universes. From the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), and even the animated fun of the Spider-Verse, PG-13 superhero films are generally considered family-friendly fare. Even Deadpool 2 received a PG-13 makeover with Once Upon a Deadpool. However, the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine movie is set to unleash the R-rated intensity of Logan with the Merc with a Mouth’s signature irreverence. This raises a crucial question for parents: Is Deadpool & Wolverine appropriate for children?
Ultimately, the decision rests with you, as you know your children best. However, to aid in your judgment, consider this your parents guide to the mature content within Deadpool & Wolverine, with minor spoilers to help you navigate the film’s potentially tricky terrain.
What Age is Deadpool & Wolverine Appropriate For? Understanding the Violence Level
Deadpool takes a beating in a car, highlighting the movie’s violent content. Credit: Jay Maidment / 20th Century Studios / MARVEL
If your children are familiar with Logan or the previous Deadpool films, you might believe they’re prepared for anything Deadpool & Wolverine throws their way. While familiarity helps, this team-up amps up the on-screen carnage to genuinely jarring levels as Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine attempt to revitalize the MCU with their combined might and mature-audience appeal.
For example, the movie opens with a scene where Wade Wilson desecrates a well-known grave, utilizing its contents as weapons in a particularly bloody fight against TVA soldiers. Even more graphic is a later scene depicting another hero being flayed alive. While these scenes are presented with a comedic edge, it remains to be seen if this will sufficiently soften the impact for younger viewers sensitive to graphic imagery. Parents should consider their child’s tolerance for violence, even when presented humorously.
Drug References and Usage in Deadpool & Wolverine: What Parents Need to Know
Blind Al jokes about her drug habits, a recurring theme in Deadpool movies. Credit: Jay Maidment / 20th Century Studios / MARVEL
Expect plenty of drug references in Deadpool & Wolverine, primarily as comedic fodder. Blind Al, played by Leslie Uggams, returns, and her penchant for cocaine is once again a source of running jokes. You can catch a glimpse of this humor in the movie’s trailers. However, actual on-screen drug use is minimal. Wolverine is shown drinking Jim Beam and, in a desperate situation, resorting to rubbing alcohol. Parents concerned about glamorization of drug use can be reassured that the movie largely uses drugs for comedic effect rather than portraying actual use.
Sexual References in Deadpool & Wolverine: Navigating the Bawdy Humor
Deadpool and Wolverine in action, amidst the movie’s sexual innuendo and humor. Credit: Jay Maidment / 20th Century Studios / MARVEL
While Deadpool & Wolverine doesn’t reach the level of the holiday-themed sex position montage seen in the first Deadpool movie, sexual references are definitely present. There are numerous jokes about Deadpool’s groin area and its various states, including a line during a fight: “I am soaking wet right now.”
A suit-up sequence features close-ups of Deadpool’s crotch area, with a tailor’s hand lingering in that region, prompting Deadpool to jokingly call the tailor a “predator.” Perhaps the most potentially awkward line for parents to explain to curious children is Deadpool’s use of “whiskey dick” when Wolverine’s drunken state affects his claw extension. Parents should be prepared for some mature humor and potentially awkward questions from younger viewers regarding the movie’s sexual innuendo.
How Scary is Deadpool & Wolverine? Gauging the Fright Factor
Cassandra Nova’s unsettling presence adds a horror element to Deadpool & Wolverine. Credit: Jay Maidment / 20th Century Studios / MARVEL
The movie’s graphic violence is often counterbalanced by its over-the-top humor, and the fact that both Deadpool and Wolverine possess rapid healing abilities can lessen the impact of the carnage. However, the introduction of Cassandra Nova, played by Emma Corrin, brings a new level of unsettling content to the MCU. As Charles Xavier’s evil twin, Cassandra possesses all his telekinetic power without any moral constraints. Her method of mind probing is particularly disturbing, involving physical intrusion.
While past Deadpool movies have shown him with broken bones, regenerating limbs, and even exploding, nothing quite prepares viewers for Cassandra Nova physically digging her fingers into a human skull as if it were Play-Doh. The scene where she manhandles Mr. Paradox (Matthew Macfadyen) by the face is genuinely unsettling and could potentially cause nightmares for more sensitive children. Parents should consider if their children are easily frightened by body horror or intense villain portrayals.
Profanity Levels in Deadpool & Wolverine: Brace Yourself for F-Bombs
Wolverine’s aggressive stance hints at the movie’s prevalent use of strong language. Credit: Jay Maidment / 20th Century Studios / MARVEL
Deadpool & Wolverine features a significant amount of cursing. The red-band trailers offer a taste of the language level. However, it’s not just Deadpool and Wolverine dropping F-bombs. Numerous super-powered cameos also contribute to the profanity. One particular actor, known for playing a very wholesome MCU hero, unleashes a torrent of curse words that may surprise parents and amuse or shock children. For parents particularly sensitive to strong language, or those who prefer to shield their children from it, be aware that Deadpool & Wolverine earns its R-rating in part through its frequent and strong language. A hot tip for parents concerned about language: consider leaving before the end-credit scene, which reportedly contains even more profanity.
Ultimately, Deadpool & Wolverine, hitting theaters on July 26, promises to be a wild ride. This parents guide is designed to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s a ride suitable for your whole family.
