Todd Phillips unveiled the eccentric genesis of the proposed "Joker" sequel, envisioning Joaquin Phoenix performing live on stage in a limited engagement, a concept that would have shaken up Broadway with a jazz-infused extravaganza. As "Joker: Folie à Deux" emerges as a cinematic musical masterpiece, the director and lead actor divulge the wild origins that almost transformed Gotham's darkest tale into a jazz-hands frenzy on the Great White Way.
Phoenix reminisced in a recent interview, painting a vivid picture of the film's inception, which manifested in his dreams after he triumphantly claimed an Oscar for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck, the lonely comedian-turned-chaotic force in Phillips' 2019 masterpiece. "In my dream, Todd whispered through a headset from the shadows, and I found myself in costume, serenading and jesting before a live New York audience as Fleck," Phoenix shared with Variety, adding that the exhilaration upon waking propelled him to call Phillips, hopeful they could collaborate on a live show.
However, Variety confirmed that their aspirations to bring this theatrical spectacle to Broadway were cut short by the unforeseen pandemic. "As we delved deeper, we realized the colossal undertaking would span four years and demanded Joaquin's relentless dedication for months on end," Phillips elaborated, acknowledging the logistical and logistical hurdles. "We even toyed with the idea of a scaled-down production at the Carlyle, but COVID struck, leaving our stage dreams in limbo."
Though the stage concept never materialized, it sowed the seeds for "Joker: Folie à Deux," a musical odyssey set two years after the first film's devastating conclusion. Imprisoned in Arkham Asylum, Fleck (Phoenix) strikes an unlikely alliance with fellow inmate Harleen "Lee" Quinzel (Lady Gaga), embarking on a tumultuous journey filled with musical mayhem.
The film, as glimpsed in its tantalizing trailer, showcases Phoenix and Gaga as a homicidal Sonny & Cher redux, their variety show sequence merely a snippet of the musical magic that weaves through the narrative. Phillips emphasized, "This film aims to exude the essence of madness, where the inmates wield control over their asylum."
Furthermore, Phillips has laid to rest any notions of a third "Joker" film or his Hulk Hogan project, stating, "Two films in this surreal sandbox were a thrilling ride, but we've exhausted our tales in this universe."
Entertainment Weekly has reached out to Phillips' and Warner Bros.' representatives for further insights, as "Joker: Folie à Deux" prepares to captivate audiences worldwide upon its October 4th theatrical release, following its world premiere at the prestigious 2024 Venice Film Festival.
