The Studio Wanted Joker 2 Immediately. Todd Phillips Explains Why It Took 5 Years

The Studio Wanted Joker 2 Immediately. Todd Phillips Explains Why It Took 5 Years

As a gamer who grew up watching Batman comics and movies, I have to say that the Joker is one of my all-time favorite villains. So when Joker was released in 2019, it blew me away with its raw intensity and incredible performance by Joaquin Phoenix. The fact that it sparked a conversation about mental health made it even more special.


The unprecedented success of the 2019 movie “Joker” left many stunned. Not only did it surpass the $1 billion mark worldwide and secure a best picture nomination, but it also ignited a crucial conversation about mental health. As such, it stands as one of the influential films of the last decade. Given this, it’s no surprise that Warner Bros., the studio responsible for the film, yearned for a sequel right away. However, the release of the sequel, titled “Joker: Folie À Deux“, was delayed – and here’s why Todd Phillips, the writer/director, recently revealed to TopMob.

Lately, I had a conversation with Todd Phillips about his movie “Folie À Deux”. In our discussion, I mentioned the studio’s preference for expanding Arthur Fleck’s character. Here is what he responded:

They suggested, much like any studio might say, “Let’s make another one.” However, if you recall the sequence of events, COVID-19 emerged rather abruptly. This was either during or shortly after Joker’s release. Consequently, we all found ourselves at home. In this period, Joaquin [Phoenix] and I began exchanging texts, while Scott Silver and I started having daily phone conversations. Thus, it wasn’t a sudden “eureka” moment; instead, the idea gradually developed and eventually took shape.

Despite the hope that we had moved beyond chronicling COVID-related delays in Hollywood, it appears we’re back in the thick of it. Todd Phillips’ tolerance for the studio seems uncommon, given their likely persistence. However, it seems the project has evolved organically. Isn’t that beneficial? It’s reasonable to conclude that exceptional art often emerges from an unrestricted creative process rather than external pressure from corporate entities.

Hopefully, this translates into a film that audiences love just as much as Joker. As of now, it’s fair to say that critics are mixed on Joker: Folie À Deux. In TopMob’s own Joker 2 review, Eric Eisenberg praised the pairing of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga but state that as a whole the film doesn’t “totally work.”

More on Joker: Folie À Deux 
The Studio Wanted Joker 2 Immediately. Todd Phillips Explains Why It Took 5 Years

I Just Can’t Get Enough of Speculating About Joker 2, the Thought-Provoking Sequel Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. It’s Altering My Perspective on the Original Film.

As a gamer, I can relate to Joaquin Phoenix’s sentiments. For me, it’s not about winning or achieving accolades; it’s all about the impact the game has on its players. If I were him, I’d be ecstatic if the movie resonated with people as deeply as the first film in the series did back in 2019. That kind of connection is the real success for me.

No matter what critics or audiences think about the movie, it’s evident that Todd Phillips and his team have put in a lot of effort and journeyed a great distance to reach this point. It will certainly be fascinating to find out how the movie fares in the end.

On October 4th, catch “Joker: Folie À Deux” in theaters! To enhance your experience, don’t forget to stream its 2019 precursor with a Max subscription beforehand. And, as is customary, keep an eye out for other films coming our way in 2024.

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2024-09-29 01:07