If you haven’t seen the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbuster, Deadpool & Wolverine, be advised that spoilers lie ahead as they are unavoidable in reporting this monumental event. Actor Wesley Snipes, who has made a surprising comeback as Blade in the highly anticipated film, has now claimed not one but two Guinness World Records. Snipes’ cameo marks the longest career of a live-action Marvel character, with a staggering 25 years and 340 days elapsing since his initial portrayal in 1998’s Blade, according to Guinness World Records. This surpasses the impressive record previously held by Hugh Jackman, who debuted as Wolverine 24 years ago in 2000’s X-Men.
Furthermore, Snipes’ appearance has also secured him the record for the longest interval between character portrayals in Marvel films. His 19-year and 231-day hiatus since 2004’s Blade: Trinity outmatches Alfred Molina’s 17-year gap between his iconic role as Doc Ock in Spider-Man 2 (2004) and Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021).
Deadpool & Wolverine features a cavalcade of superhero cameos, delighting fans and amplifying the film’s appeal. The movie brings Blade together with titular characters Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) and Wolverine (Hugh Jackman). The ensemble cast doesn’t stop there. Jennifer Garner reprises her role as Elektra from the 2003 and 2005 films, Dafne Keen returns as X-23 from Logan, and Channing Tatum finally gets his moment as Gambit, fulfilling a long-awaited dream for many fans after his unrealized project. The icing on the cinematic cake is Chris Evans’ return, not as Captain America, but as Johnny Storm from the Fantastic Four series.
Released on July 26, Deadpool & Wolverine has already smashed several box office records. The film raked in a remarkable $211 million in its first weekend in North American theaters, securing the sixth-highest opening weekend of all time. Crucially, it obliterated the opening weekend record for R-rated films, previously held by the original Deadpool, which garnered $132 million. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film has become the highest-grossing debut of 2024, surpassing Disney’s Inside Out 2.
The overwhelming success of Deadpool & Wolverine arrives at a time when Marvel Studios has faced substantial challenges in launching its blade revival film starring Mahershala Ali. The Blade revival has been mired in what has been labeled as ‘development hell,’ characterized by numerous delays and setbacks.
. During his brief appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine, Snipes’ Blade humorously addressed these ongoing delays, quipping that he remains the ultimate and singular Blade.
This latest MCU installment not only marks significant achievements for Snipes but also reaffirms the franchise’s capacity to continuously captivate and surprise its global audience. Fans had been eagerly anticipating this crossover event, hoping it would live up to the hype. And by all accounts, it has surpassed expectations with its record-breaking performance and star-studded cast.
The cameo of Snipes as Blade serves as more than just a nostalgic nod to his earlier work; it underscores the character’s lasting impact on the Marvel landscape. Blade, originally released in 1998, is often credited with paving the way for the modern superhero film genre. Snipes’ portrayal helped establish a darker, more mature tone that future Marvel films would occasionally revisit.
Snipes’ achievement is even more impressive when considered within the broader context of the MCU and superhero cinema as a whole. In an industry where roles and actors frequently change, his enduring connection to the character of Blade sets a new standard for longevity and resilience.
The emergence of Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine amidst a slew of other high-profile cameos illustrates the MCU’s knack for blending past and present narratives. The film doesn’t merely rely on the star power of its lead characters but enriches the storyline with multiple layers of nostalgia and continuity, making it a multifaceted viewing experience for fans of all ages.
Deadpool & Wolverine has redefined the standards for superhero films, not just in financial terms but also in how it pays homage to its history while pushing forward into new territories. Wesley Snipes’ new records are a testament to his enduring popularity and the character’s significance in the Marvel Universe. As the MCU continues to evolve, Snipes’ return as Blade is a poignant reminder of the franchise’s deep roots and ever-expanding future.
In sum, Wesley Snipes has not only made a triumphant return to the role that he first brought to life over two decades ago but has also set new milestones in the chronicles of superhero cinema. His longevity in a rapidly changing industry is a remarkable feat, one that will undoubtedly inspire both current fans and future generations of moviegoers.
