Joker: Folie À Deux – Overview
From Acclaimed Writer/Director/Producer Todd Phillips
“Joker: Folie À Deux” is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 film “Joker.” Directed, written, and produced by Todd Phillips, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix, reprising his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, and introduces Lady Gaga as a key character.
Plot and Cast
The story continues with Arthur Fleck institutionalized at Arkham Asylum, facing trial for his actions as the Joker. As he struggles with his dual identity, he discovers true love and uncovers a musical talent within himself. The film features a stellar cast including Oscar nominees Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener, with Zazie Beetz returning as Sophie Dumond.
Creative Team
Phillips worked with his team from the original “Joker” film, including cinematographer Lawrence Sher, production designer Mark Friedberg, editor Jeff Groth, and composer Hildur Guðnadóttir. New to the team is costume designer Arianne Phillips. Lady Gaga contributed as the music consultant, with Randall Poster and George Drakoulias serving as music supervisors. The film’s production was supported by executive producers Michael E. Uslan, Georgia Kacandes, Scott Silver, Mark Friedberg, and Jason Ruder.
Release Information
“Joker: Folie À Deux” is set for a theatrical release by Warner Bros. Pictures on October 4, 2024, in the United States, with an international release starting on October 2, 2024.
The First Joker Movie – Overview
Introduction
The 2019 film “Joker,” directed by Todd Phillips, took audiences by storm, becoming an unexpected cultural phenomenon. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, the movie presents a gritty and psychological exploration of the origins of one of DC Comics’ most iconic villains.
Plot Summary
The film follows Arthur Fleck, a failed stand-up comedian in Gotham City who descends into madness and becomes the criminal mastermind known as the Joker. The story delves into Arthur’s struggles with mental illness and societal rejection, culminating in his transformation into the anarchic figure who eventually becomes a symbol of chaos.
Cast and Crew
- Joaquin Phoenix delivered a tour-de-force performance as Arthur Fleck/Joker, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film also starred Robert De Niro as talk show host Murray Franklin, Zazie Beetz as Sophie Dumond, Arthur’s neighbor, and Frances Conroy as Penny Fleck, Arthur’s mother.
Creative Contributions
The movie was noted for its dark and realistic tone, inspired by classic films like “Taxi Driver” and “The King of Comedy.” It featured a haunting score by Hildur Guðnadóttir, which won the Oscar for Best Original Score. The film’s cinematography, production design, and editing all contributed to its distinct and immersive atmosphere.
Critical and Commercial Success
“Joker” received widespread acclaim for Phoenix’s performance, Phillips’ direction, and its bold take on the comic book genre. Despite some controversy over its themes and portrayal of violence, the film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. It received numerous accolades, including 11 Academy Award nominations, and won Best Actor for Phoenix and Best Original Score for Guðnadóttir.