In an unexpected twist in the world of superhero movie preparations, Emma Corrin, set to play the villain Cassandra Nova in the upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine,” revealed that Marvel Studios denied their request for a personal trainer. This decision stands in stark contrast to the typical superhero movie protocol, where intense physical transformations have become the norm.
Speaking to British GQ, Corrin expressed their readiness to undergo the customary superhero transformation. “I was so ready to undergo a huge transformation, but they were like, ‘That’s absolutely not required of you. Please stand down,'” Corrin explained. The actor’s enthusiasm for the physical challenge was met with a surprising response from Marvel, who deemed the transformation unnecessary for Corrin’s role.
This decision marks a departure from the established trend in superhero films, popularized largely by Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine. Jackman’s physical transformations for the X-Men films have long been considered the gold standard for superhero roles. Michael B. Jordan, known for his role as Killmonger in the MCU, once referred to Jackman’s physique as “the blueprint for actors” in superhero movies.
The trend of dramatic physical transformations for superhero roles gained momentum in the 2010s with the rise of the MCU. Actors like Chris Hemsworth and Chris Pratt became known for their impressive body transformations for their respective roles as Thor and Star-Lord.
While Corrin’s co-stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have likely undergone rigorous training for their returns as Deadpool and Wolverine, Marvel’s decision regarding Corrin suggests a potential shift in approach, at least for certain characters.
“Deadpool & Wolverine” is set to hit theaters on July 26, 2024, and fans are eagerly anticipating how Corrin’s Cassandra Nova will fit into the superhero landscape, sans the typical physical transformation.