The “Deadpool vs Wolverine” movie is a dream come true for many Marvel fans, bringing together two iconic characters in a single narrative. What makes this film even more intriguing is its exploration of various Wolverine variants, each with unique attributes and stories from the comic books. Here’s a detailed look at the different Wolverine variants featured in the movie, their comic book origins, and their unique characteristics.
Wolverine (Comic Accurate Height)
The Wolverine depicted in a comic-accurate manner stays true to the original vision of the character as created by Roy Thomas, Len Wein, and John Romita Sr. This Wolverine is shorter than many of his X-Men counterparts, standing at around 5’3” to 5’5”. This portrayal emphasizes his feral nature and fierce combat skills despite his stature.
First Appearance: The Incredible Hulk #180-181 (1974)
Origins: Logan, also known as James Howlett, was born in the late 19th century in Canada. His mutation, which grants him accelerated healing and retractable bone claws, manifested during his youth. Over time, he was subjected to the Weapon X program, which bonded the indestructible metal adamantium to his skeleton, making him nearly invincible. The comic-accurate Wolverine is a gritty, no-nonsense hero with a complicated past, often dealing with themes of identity and humanity.
Age of Apocalypse – Weapon X
In the “Age of Apocalypse” timeline, the X-Men universe is drastically altered. Weapon X, also known as Logan in this reality, is a key player in the fight against Apocalypse.
First Appearance: X-Men: Alpha #1 (1995)
Origins: In this dystopian future, Charles Xavier’s death leads to a world where Apocalypse reigns supreme. Weapon X loses his hand in battle but continues to fight valiantly against Apocalypse’s regime. This version of Wolverine is marked by his grim determination and the physical and emotional scars of constant warfare. He is often seen with his lover, Jean Grey, and together they symbolize hope amidst chaos.
Old Man Logan
One of the most beloved versions of Wolverine, Old Man Logan, presents a future where superheroes have fallen, and villains rule the world.
First Appearance: Wolverine #66 (2008)
Origins: In this storyline, Logan has aged significantly, his healing factor slowed. He lives a quiet life, trying to forget his violent past. The world is divided among supervillains, and Logan is pulled back into action when he is forced to help an old friend, Hawkeye. This version of Wolverine deals with themes of redemption and the enduring spirit of a hero. His journey is one of survival in a post-apocalyptic world, highlighting his resilience and the depth of his character.
Patch
In the Marvel universe, Logan adopts the alias “Patch” while residing in Madripoor, a lawless island.
First Appearance: Wolverine #1 (1988)
Origins: Madripoor, a place of corruption and crime, becomes Logan’s new home as he takes on the identity of Patch. Wearing a simple eye patch as a disguise, he navigates the underworld, dealing with crime lords and mercenaries. This period in Wolverine’s life emphasizes his detective skills and his ability to operate in morally grey areas. As Patch, he often works alone, relying on his cunning and combat skills.
Wolverine from Uncanny X-Men #453 Cover (Henry Cavill)
This version of Wolverine, imagined as being played by Henry Cavill, offers a unique visual take on the character.
First Appearance: Uncanny X-Men #453 (2005)
Origins: The cover art for Uncanny X-Men #453 features Wolverine in a stylish and powerful pose, capturing the essence of his ferocity and strength all while on a motorcycle. While this version doesn’t differ significantly in storyline from the mainstream Wolverine, but it shows that this Wolverine is built with a bigger and meaner look. Imagining Henry Cavill in the role brings fan casting to life. Hopefully we’ll get to see more of this version.
Wolverine from Cover #251
The cover of Wolverine #251 is one of the most iconic images of the character, featuring him in a fierce and some say controversial pose.
First Appearance: Wolverine #251 (1989)
Origins: This issue showcases Wolverine’s relentless nature and his willingness to confront any challenge head-on. The storyline typically revolves around his solo adventures, dealing with enemies and uncovering personal mysteries. This cover, drawn by Marc Silvestri encapsulates Wolverine’s sacrifice for all mutants: a lone warrior with an unbreakable spirit, ready to take on the world.
Wolverine from Incredible Hulk Cover #340
This cover is one of the most famous in comic book history, illustrating a dramatic showdown between Wolverine and the Hulk.
First Appearance: Incredible Hulk #340 (1988)
Origins: The confrontation between Wolverine and the Hulk is a recurring theme in Marvel comics, showcasing the clash between two of its most powerful characters. This cover, drawn by Todd McFarlane, captures the intensity and raw power of their battles. The story typically highlights Wolverine’s tenacity and strategic mind, as he faces off against an overwhelmingly strong opponent.
With the “Deadpool vs Wolverine” film, the unique versions of Wolverine are brought vividly to life, each adding a distinct aspect to the character. From the gritty realism of the comic-accurate Wolverine to the dystopian survivalist of Old Man Logan, every portrayal captures a different facet of this iconic hero. Wolverine’s rich history and varied storylines continue to captivate audiences, ensuring that each version offers something new and exciting for fans. Whether you’re a longtime reader of Wolverine’s adventures or new to the character, these variants provide a fascinating glimpse into one of Marvel’s most enduring and complex heroes.