The opening scene of Deadpool & Wolverine has set the internet ablaze, not just for its signature Deadpool action, but for an unexpected element: dance. Fans were treated to a spectacular sequence where Deadpool battles agents of the Time Variance Authority (TVA) with Wolverine’s adamantium skeleton, all while seamlessly interjected with dance moves to NSYNC’s iconic hit, “Bye Bye Bye.” This fusion of action and dance immediately sparked a major question: did Ryan Reynolds himself perform those impressive dance steps in Deadpool? Reynolds has addressed the buzz around this scene, and the answer might surprise those who were ready to credit his moves.
Deadpool and Wolverine poster with sword reflection
The Viral Deadpool Dance: More Than Meets the Eye
The Deadpool & Wolverine opening dance sequence quickly became a viral sensation. Social media feeds are flooded with fans attempting to recreate Deadpool’s moves, highlighting the scene’s immediate impact on pop culture. The unexpected combination of brutal action with the catchy choreography of “Bye Bye Bye” created a memorable and shareable moment, perfectly encapsulating Deadpool’s irreverent and unpredictable nature. This opening did more than just entertain; it cleverly used dance to amplify the film’s already heightened sense of spectacle.
Debunking the Myth: Ryan Reynolds and the Dance
Despite the seamless integration of dance into the action, Ryan Reynolds himself has clarified that he was not the one executing those slick moves. In an interview with Ashley & Company, Reynolds confessed that a professional dancer was responsible for bringing “Dancepool” to life. This revelation might be surprising to some, given Reynolds’ charismatic on-screen presence, but it underscores the dedication to detail in crafting this memorable scene.
Meet Nick Pauley: The Real “Dancepool”
The dancer behind Deadpool’s viral moves is Nick Pauley, a seasoned professional with an impressive resume that includes collaborations with pop icons like Katy Perry and Doja Cat. Pauley was the choreographer and performer who embodied the “Dancepool” persona, even earning that nickname in the film’s credits. His expertise is undeniable in the execution of NSYNC’s signature choreography, seamlessly blended with Deadpool’s chaotic fight style. Pauley himself has expressed gratitude on Instagram to Reynolds and director Shawn Levy for the opportunity, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the work that went into creating the dance sequence. Interestingly, Pauley revealed he learned the complex choreography in a mere 30 minutes after receiving the call for the job, showcasing his incredible talent and adaptability.
A Nostalgic Nod: The Dance as a Tribute
Beyond the immediate entertainment value, the use of “Bye Bye Bye” and the dance sequence serves a deeper purpose within Deadpool & Wolverine. It acts as a nostalgic musical tribute to 20th Century Fox’s era of Marvel films from the early 2000s. This period saw the rise of superhero movies like the X-Men franchise, Tim Story’s Fantastic Four, and Ben Affleck’s Daredevil, all released around the time NSYNC’s hit song dominated the charts. The film cleverly weaves this musical nostalgia into its narrative, further emphasized by the later appearance of Jennifer Garner’s Elektra and Wesley Snipes’ Blade, reprising their roles from that same cinematic era.
The Future of “Dancepool” and Extended Cuts
For fans captivated by the opening dance, director Shawn Levy has exciting news. Footage exists of Nick Pauley performing the entire “Bye Bye Bye” dance routine. Levy has expressed amazement at the overwhelmingly positive response to the opening sequence, hinting at the possibility of a director’s cut featuring the full dance. While audiences eagerly await such a release, the “Dancepool” moment is already cemented as a highlight of Deadpool & Wolverine, promising to inspire cosplayers and dance enthusiasts for years to come.
In conclusion, while Ryan Reynolds may not have personally busted a move as Deadpool, the iconic dance sequence is a testament to the talent of Nick Pauley and the creative vision of the filmmakers. It’s a fun, memorable, and cleverly nostalgic moment that perfectly sets the tone for the latest Deadpool adventure.
