In an astonishing twist, Marvel’s sequel Deadpool & Wolverine has surpassed all expectations to become the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time. Just 23 days after its release on July 26, 2024, the film has crossed the $1 billion mark, outshining the iconic Joker.
The Rise of Deadpool & Wolverine
Deadpool & Wolverine has amassed an impressive $1.089 billion globally, setting a new record for R-rated films. The movie enjoyed a robust domestic debut, raking in $211 million, making it the sixth-largest opening weekend ever. This film marks Marvel Studios’ first venture into the R-rated arena, with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman returning as the irreverent Deadpool and the gruff Wolverine. The film also features a star-studded cast, including Jennifer Garner as Elektra, Chris Evans as the Human Torch from Fantastic Four, and Wesley Snipes as Blade. Together, they join forces with Deadpool and Wolverine on a mission to save the timeline.
The Legacy of Joker
Joker, starring Joaquin Phoenix, had a landmark run in 2019, starting with a colossal $247 million opening weekend and ultimately grossing $1.0789 billion worldwide. Phoenix’s portrayal earned him the Oscar for Best Actor, while Hildur Guðnadóttir’s haunting score won the Academy Award for Best Original Score. Joker set a high bar for R-rated movies, but it has now been surpassed by Deadpool & Wolverine.
Deadpool & Wolverine vs. Joker: Folie à Deux
The competition in the R-rated cinema landscape is heating up with Deadpool & Wolverine and the upcoming Joker: Folie à Deux vying for dominance. The upcoming film Saturday Night is a strong contender with its appeal to adult audiences and nostalgic value. Additionally, Venom: The Last Dance and Smile 2 are emerging as potential challengers due to their anticipation and recognition.
Future Prospects
Deadpool might not return for a solo film until after Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, and if it continues to lead, a rematch with Joker may not occur. Meanwhile, the future of DC’s cinematic universe under James Gunn’s direction and the continuation of Matt Reeves’ The Batman series hint at a new era for DC. However, the fate of Todd Phillips’ standalone Joker franchise remains uncertain.
As the battle for R-rated box office supremacy continues, the ultimate champion is yet to be determined, and the competition remains fierce.