Warning: SPOILERS for Deadpool #1
Superhero movies and comics don't cross over often, but nobody does it like Deadpool. And in this week's Deadpool #1 relaunch, the Merc With A Mouth takes a shot at the impact the Deadpool films have had on his newest title.
It's been a busy few months for the Marvel character, with Deadpool 2 hitting the big screen while the Marvel comics have essentially rebooted Wade Wilson's story for a brand new title following the completion of Despicable Deadpool. Thanks to a freshly wiped memory, Deadpool has been restored to factory settings, and Deadpool #1 sets up his new situation as a straight-up mercenary once more.
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As well as being back to his old tricks in Deadpool #1, Wade Wilson has a new partner in this series: none other than Negasonic Teenage Warhead (who is a major character in the Deadpool movies, as well). The issue doesn't explore how or why this pairing came about, though. Instead, Negasonic Teenage Warhead - as she appears in the movies, not prior comics - is simply seen sitting at her desk when Deadpool returns to his office in the back of a shopping mall toystore.
In fact, there is only a single panel that addresses the sudden appearance of Deadpool's new partner in crime, and it's one that pokes fun at the idea that they have been teamed up in order to appeal to fans of the films. As Negasonic Teenage Warhead drops a little more deadpan sass on Deadpool, he responds with mock hurt, referencing the 'years and years of history' they have together.
Of course, with his memory wiped, Deadpool has no idea if they have any history at all, and ends up suggesting that maybe she's his new partner because they were paired in a movie, and the writer (Skottie Young) is trying to ride the coattails of the film. Ouch!
Of course, Deadpool isn't necessarily wrong here, either. The decision Marvel made to launch the new title at the same time as Deadpool 2 is not coincidence (especially a title that reboots the character, meaning that readers don't need to know any of Deadpool's recent history to keep up). The appearance of Negasonic Teenage Warhead will certainly appeal to new fans finding the book because of the film - not to mention that she has become an increasingly popular character for existing comic book fans, thanks to her portrayal by Brianna Hildebrand. She has also previously appeared in Deadpool & The Mercs For Money, a series that ran after the release of the original Deadpool film in 2016.
It makes sense for Marvel to try and get movie fans interested in the comics by using familiar faces (Deadpool #1 also includes both the Guardians of the Galaxy and the Avengers, just to really pack it with famous movie teams)... but good luck getting Wade Wilson to overlook the marketing machinations.
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Deadpool #1 is available now from Marvel Comics.