The latest project of the two actors, directed by Todd Phillips, will be presented this evening at the Venice Film Festival.
Joker: Folie à Deux is one of the most anticipated sequels of recent years, picking up where the original film, Joker (2019), left off. The Todd Phillips-directed film captivated audiences with its dark and psychologically complex take on the story of Arthur Fleck, aka the Joker, played by Joaquin Phoenix. The first installment was a huge critical and commercial success, grossing over $1 billion at the global box office and earning Joaquin Phoenix an Oscar for Best Actor. The sequel promises to continue in the same disturbing and introspective vein.
The synopsis
The official synopsis for Joker: Folie à Deux remains a mystery, but several elements have been revealed that hint at the direction the story will take. The title, “Folie à Deux,” refers to a psychological disorder shared by two individuals, often in the context of collective madness. This title suggests that the film will explore the relationship between Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) and another troubled character, likely Harleen Quinzel, better known as Harley Quinn.
According to speculations and hints dropped by the film’s team, the plot should focus on the meeting and evolution of the relationship between Arthur Fleck and Harley Quinn, a psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum where Arthur is interned at the end of the first film. Harley, played by Lady Gaga, could follow a story arc where she goes from doctor to criminal accomplice and lover of the Joker. The film could delve into their shared madness, exploring both their tormented psyches and their toxic dynamic.
Another intriguing element is that the film would be partially a musical. This bold stylistic choice is in line with the original, which used music to reflect the state of mind of its protagonist. The musical format could serve to accentuate the descent into madness and chaos of the main characters.
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Joker: Folie À Deux | Official Trailer
The casting
The Joker: Folie à Deux cast promises to be as impressive as it is diverse. Let’s start with Joaquin Phoenix, who reprises his role as Arthur Fleck/Joker. His portrayal of the character has been widely acclaimed, and it’s certain that he will bring new depth to this complex role. Lady Gaga joins the cast as Harleen Quinzel/Harley Quinn. Her inclusion has sparked much interest and speculation about the direction the film will take. Lady Gaga is not only known for her music career but also for her acting chops, which she showcased in A Star is Born (2018), for which she was nominated for an Oscar. Zazie Beetz also reprises her role as Sophie Dumond, Arthur’s neighbor. In the first film, her ambiguous relationship with Arthur added an extra layer of complexity to her character. Other cast members include Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, and Harry Lawtey.
The release date
Premiering tonight at the Venice Film Festival, the film is set to hit theaters in France on October 2, 2024. Filming began in late 2022 and wrapped in early 2023. With a fall release slated, Joker: Folie à Deux appears to be aiming for an awards season spot, just like its predecessor.
