5 Reasons We Can't Wait for Ryan Reynolds' Pansexual 'Deadpool'

Ever since the announcement of a Deadpool film the internet has been abuzz, questioning whether or not the movie would illustrate the omnisexuality and sexual fluidity that the titular character displays in the original comics.

This week, in an interview with Collider, director Tim Miller and actor Ryan Reynolds gave us just what we've been waiting to hear. When asked about the "tantalizing fireside photo" that has been passed around during promotion, and whether it hinted at a "hypersexualized" Deadpool, Miller took the opportunity to set the record not-so-straight: "pansexual," he said. "I want that quoted. pansexual Deadpool."

Here's why we're freaking out so hard about it, and why you should too:

1. Representation

As underrepresented as queer identities are in the media, identities that live more toward the middle of the spectrum (bisexual, pansexual, etc.) are even more underrepresented — especially in popular films. Having a highly-promoted, much-anticipated film overtly show its protagonist as pansexual's super important.

With this announcement, we can officially award Deadpool with the title of "First Pansexual Superhero." What a time to be alive.

2. Name recognition

Not only is this totally exciting simply because of the representation aspect, but did we mention that this is a character played by Ryan freakin' Reynolds?!

This guy has name recognition for days. People of all different ages and backgrounds have heard of him. He's not some new up-and-coming, no-name actor nobody knows. He's the hot dad from Definitely, Maybe. He's that guy who pretended to be married to Sandra Bullock and had Betty White for a grandmother.

We know him. We are invested in him. We root for him. So him being the one playing the first pansexual superhero is also pretty damn great.

3. Brand recognition

Not only do we have massive recognition with Ryan Reynold's alone, but we also have the backing of one of the most popular and lucrative franchises of all time. Marvel is a powerhouse. It's is a force to be reckoned with.

Simply by being a Marvel creation and having the Marvel name attached to it, Deadpool is sure to bring in massive crowds, which means millions will see this man in all of this pansexual wonder.

4. Normalization

Once we are able to see a superhero identify as pansexual, pansexuality becomes more normalized. Why not embrace it and other identities on the queer spectrum, too?

5. Exposure

The label "pansexual" is still relatively new. Many of the people seeing this movie will have never even heard that word before, let alone seen a canonically pan character before. Until now.

This film is important. This character is important. At their best, superhero movies can inspire us to find our inner power and strength. We learn from them and, like it or not, we are impacted by them. They can help us grow, and help shape our culture.

We won't know for sure until the film is released Feb. 12, but right now, Deadpool seems to be doing a lot to shape it in a positive way.