Upcoming Musical ‘Joker 2’ Stars Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. It centers on the Joker’s relationship with Harley Quinn

The Joker will be played by Joaquin Phoenix wearing his suit of laughter and Lady Gaga will be the dancing Joker, in the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 blockbuster ‘Joker.’ Budget of $200 million has been reported for this song-and-dance affair, where stakes are really high.

Come along, then, as we delve into every exciting aspect of it – and do not stop singing until you reach the cinema!

The Returnees (and the Newcomers)

Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn in the first teaser trailer for "Joker: Folie à Deux."

Image credit- Warner Bros.

The original ‘Joker’ fans will be happy to hear that Joaquin Phoenix plays the main role, namely Arthur Fleck, the titular Joker. His best Joker performance for which he received the Oscar in the original one made him the best Joker of all times.

Together with him is the legendary Lady Gaga, who will play the role of Harley Quinn. That shows a divergence from the usual background of the character, as Harley is mostly presented as the Joker’s psychiatrist at the Arkham Asylum, then his girlfriend in crime. Here she is also a prisoner in the same asylum where she first meets the Joker.

But that’s not all! Zazie Beetz is playing Sophie Dumond again, Arthur’s neighbor and “love” interest. Besides the returning characters, there will be some new actors, including Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener and Harry Lawtey. Apart from that, the cherry? Steve Coogan, also a comedian, showed up for the movie as well.

A Musical Twist

Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga in Joker: Folie à Deux."

Image credit- Warner Bros.

If the prospect of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga sharing the screen wasn’t enough to get you excited, here’s the kicker: ‘Joker 2’ is a packed with song and dance!

According to the press, the sequel will have at least 15 covers of well-known songs, which will depict the Joker’s decent into madness as a jukebox extravaganza. Todd Phillips, the director, has brought surprising news that the movie will be “mostly a jukebox musical’, something that is totally contrast to the dark and gritty origin of the popular character.

However, one cannot deny that Phoenix has already showcased his interpretation of the Joker with great moves in the first film, so we’re not totally taken aback at the idea of going into theatrical territory in this sequel.

The Plot 

Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix in "Joker: Folie à Deux."

Image credit- Warner Bros.

The first ‘Joker’ movie focused on Arthur Fleck, a disturbed wannabe comedian who became the iconic DC villain. Ultimately, he got arrested at Arkham Asylum, leaving the audience uncertain what the fate was going to be.

Well, the answer is now clear: the sequel will explore the depth of the relationship between the Joker and Harley Quinn. The preview starts with the two of them having their first meeting at Arkham, then it goes on to show a mixture of romance, comedy, and, probably, many musical numbers.

This is due to the musical nature of the sequel, and so it will be interesting to see how the filmmakers handle the Joker and Harley’s relationship, which had always been darker and more volatile in the comic storyline and prior adaptations.

Mark Your Calendars

Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck in "Joker: Folie à Deux."

Image credit- Warner Bros.

‘Joker: The movie ‘Folie à Deux’ is set to release in theaters on Friday, October 4, 2024. And with the success of the first film, this sequel is likely to be a blockbuster.

All set to literally tap your toes (if not cry too) while the Joker falls in love with Harley Quinn in the most musical manner possible. Who knows, the Joker could even lead a line dance during the ending scene. Anything can happen in the land of Gotham City!

Conclusion

As the curtain rises on ‘Joker: In ‘Folie à Deux,’ audience members better be ready for a delightful trip into the twister! Joaquin Phoenix’s mesmerizing characterization of the Joker had fans on the edge of their seats, and now that Lady Gaga will be in the role of Harley Quinn, the inevitable result is a heart-thumping journey into madness.

From the beginning, the cat-and-mouse game between the Joker and Harley Quinn has been one for the fans; therefore, the choice to present this dynamic in a jukebox musical is very brave and bold. Will their bond grow into a dark love story or will the common ground of chaos and violence leading their union finally be detonated?

One thing is certain: teaming up the record budget of $200 million and the amazing filmmaking capabilities of Todd Phillips, ‘Joker 2’ can become the most startling movie of all time. The audience is definitely going to be enthralled as they behold the sinister duo of Joker and Harley Quinn who are clicking in all their steps with the throbbing rhythm of their demented psyches.

By the time of the closing credit title, the audience is to think about the reality of love mania and how close it is to insanity. ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’s run will go down as a memorable theatrical adventure that many viewers will carry with them long after the performance is over, manifesting itself as a symbol in their hearts and minds.

FAQs

Q1: What is the release date for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’?

‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ is scheduled to be released in theaters on Friday, October 4, 2024.

Q2: Who is directing the ‘Joker’ sequel?

The ‘Joker’ sequel is directed by Todd Phillips, who also directed the first ‘Joker’ film.

Q3: Will Joaquin Phoenix be reprising his role as the Joker?

Yes, Joaquin Phoenix is returning to play the role of Arthur Fleck/Joker in the sequel.

Q4: Who is playing the role of Harley Quinn in the movie?

Lady Gaga has been cast to play the role of Harley Quinn in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’.

Q5: Is ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ going to be a musical?

Yes, the sequel is being described as a “jukebox musical” and will feature at least 15 cover versions of popular songs.