Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga transformed physically and creatively for their roles in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the sequel to the 2019 hit “Joker.” At a recent press event, the stars discussed the demands of portraying their characters again for the upcoming film.
Phoenix reprises his role as Arthur Fleck, known as the Joker. He lost over 50 pounds previously for the part in “Joker” through a strict diet with medical support. Losing weight again proved even harder this time due to increased dance rehearsals. “It became an obsession,” Phoenix said of his regimen. The demanding process has led him to say this may be his final such weight loss for a role.
Lady Gaga joins the film as Fleck’s romantic interest. According to Phoenix, Gaga also lost a significant amount of weight between their first meeting about the film and the start of production. She described their method as transforming into the characters over time by refining details.
The sequel incorporates musical elements, an idea director Todd Phillips said came from a dream recounted by Phoenix. Both leads sing classic American songs in scenes where dialogue fails their characters. Gaga praised this unique approach, stating they worked to sing without technique or focusing on breath.
With high expectations, “Joker: Folie à Deux” will reveal if its unusual blend of psychological drama and music challenges audiences as much as it did its stars when it releases in theaters this October.
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