10 Big Changes The MCU Could Introduce In Phase 4
4. R-Rated Movies
Another potential ramification of Disney's Fox acquisition is adult themes coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel Studios is about to inherit R-rated characters like Deadpool, and his integration into the mainline franchise isn't out of the question.
Disney CEO Bob Iger has broached the subject of R-rated movies such as Deadpool under the Marvel Studios banner, and he foresees no problems with them "as long as we let the audiences know what's coming".
Throwing Wade Wilson and the Avengers into the mix together creates a tonal headache, but there's no reason why the mouthy merc can't exist in a dark corner of the MCU where anything goes. His adventures could take place within the same world, with minimal crossovers involving Marvel's more family-friendly characters.
That said, an R-rated label would help Marvel explore characters like Black Widow more deeply, pulling no punches while delving into her shadowy past. The character's solo film could even be an edgy spy thriller in the vein of Atomic Blonde.
The important thing to note is that Marvel has options when it comes to the likes of Deadpool in Phase 4 and beyond. He could share the screen with MCU characters, exist within the same continuity, or remain a separate entity.