Marvel Studios is making a strategic push for awards recognition for its hit film, Deadpool & Wolverine. According to a report from Variety, the studio is gearing up for an awards campaign targeting various categories, particularly in the comedy sections of the Golden Globes. The original Deadpool had previously earned nominations for Best Picture (Musical or Comedy) and for Ryan Reynolds as Best Actor. This time, the studio is also positioning Hugh Jackman for the supporting actor category to avoid potential competition with Reynolds.
Simply by being released in theaters, Deadpool & Wolverine, along with its cast and crew, qualifies for numerous awards, including those from the Critics’ Choice, Screen Actors Guild, Writers Guild, and the Academy Awards. However, actual nominations are typically achieved through focused campaigns that showcase the film to voters, emphasizing specific elements or performances.
Deadpool & Wolverine may not need much campaigning momentum, given its financial success. Having grossed $1.3 billion, it has become the highest-grossing R-rated film ever. This success nearly guarantees a nomination and likely a win in the new “Cinematic and Box Office Achievement” category at the Golden Globes. The film is also expected to gain attention for its technical achievements across the awards season. Nevertheless, securing nominations for acting, writing, or directing would be a significant accomplishment.
Many large-scale films undertake awards campaigns, even if actual nominations seem unrealistic. These efforts often serve to thank the production team and bask in a final moment of recognition before the film exits the public spotlight.
Although it might seem peculiar for Marvel and Disney to invest further in promoting Deadpool & Wolverine for awards, such campaigns are necessary to make nominations a possibility. While a Golden Globe nomination appears likely due to the distinction between "Comedy" and "Drama" categories, whether Hugh Jackman can secure a supporting actor nomination from the Academy remains uncertain.
Deadpool & Wolverine is currently still in theaters and will be available for digital download on October 1, with a 4K and Blu-ray release set for October 22.