Director Todd Phillips and actor Joaquin Phoenix explored several creative concepts when developing a follow-up to their 2019 film “Joker.” Phoenix said he had dreams of his character Arthur Fleck performing on stage, which sparked the idea of creating a Broadway production with Phillips directing. The duo saw potential in this unusual approach but ultimately faced practical difficulties in making it happen.
Phoenix shared his Broadway visions with Phillips, hoping the director would be interested in collaborating. Intrigued by the theatrical concept, Phillips seriously considered transforming it into a real show. However, putting together a Broadway production requires extensive time and resources. As Phoenix already has a busy career, committing to perform nightly for a standard run was not realistic.
The pair then looked at presenting a smaller performance at an intimate New York venue. But plans became uncertain due to the COVID-19 pandemic shutting down live entertainment. Despite the Broadway concept not moving forward, Phoenix’s on-stage dreams stuck with them and led to considering additional musical elements for the sequel.
Officially titled “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the upcoming film is described as a “musical fantasia” bringing together drama, dance, music and other genres. Lady Gaga joins Phoenix in a role resembling Harley Quinn. Gaga praised director Phillips’ ambitious vision for expanding the type of story being told within the comic genre.
Though open to taking creative risks, Phillips noted “Joker: Folie à Deux” could end their exploration of Arthur Fleck. Looking ahead, he expressed interest in directing Phoenix again for a comedy project utilizing the actor’s comic talents differently than before. As the release of their boundary-pushing sequel approaches, Phillips and Phoenix plan to keep driving their partnership through willingness to try new approaches.
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