Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn in the upcoming “Joker: Folie À Deux” is already generating significant buzz, with the film’s casting director, Francine Maisler, praising the pop icon’s performance as “surprising” and “mind-blowing.”
Speaking at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic, Maisler shared her enthusiasm for Gaga’s work in the highly anticipated sequel. “She’s so good in it, you guys. She’s going to blow your mind,” Maisler stated, adding that Gaga more than holds her own against Joaquin Phoenix’s Oscar-winning portrayal of the Joker.
The casting decision, credited to director Todd Phillips, appears to be paying off. Maisler noted, “I thought, ‘Oh, well, that’s kind of in her wheelhouse.’ Something she could do and just be real. But this… Man, she’s good.”
This role marks another significant step in Lady Gaga’s burgeoning film career. Following her Oscar-nominated performance in “A Star is Born” and her turn in Ridley Scott’s “House of Gucci,” Gaga has quickly established herself as a formidable acting talent.
“Joker: Folie À Deux,” set to release on October 4, 2024, is already being touted as a potential Oscar contender. The original “Joker” film garnered 11 Academy Award nominations, with Phoenix winning Best Actor. Given the sequel’s pedigree and Gaga’s previous Oscar nomination, industry insiders are already speculating about her chances for Best Actress.
The film, which unexpectedly pivots to a musical format, promises to be one of the most unique and anticipated releases of 2024. As Maisler put it, “Joaquin blows your mind, but that she could keep up with him, and be real — and not just wiped off the screen by what that role is and what the performance is — shows she’s good.”
With Gaga’s star power, acting chops, and musical prowess, “Joker: Folie À Deux” is shaping up to be a cinematic event that could redefine the superhero genre once again.
