Joker 2’s Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many Sequels

Joker 2's Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many Sequels

As a movie enthusiast with a heart full of nostalgia, I must say that Todd Phillips‘ insights into sequels have given me a newfound appreciation for them. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the camaraderie, the bonding, and the sheer joy of working with a group of people who share the same passion.


Despite some viewers expressing disappointment over Hollywood’s frequent sequels, often labeling them as mere money-making schemes, esteemed filmmaker Todd Phillips offers a different perspective on this trend. Phillips will once again grace the silver screen later in the year with the highly anticipated sequel, “Joker: Two Madnesses,” featuring Joaquin Phoenix reprising his role as the title DC Comics antagonist and Lady Gaga joining him as Harley Quinn in a fresh take on these classic characters. It’s worth noting that this isn’t Phillips’ first foray into sequel-making, as he also expanded his popular comedy “The Hangover” into a memorable trilogy.

In an interview with Variety, Phillips shared his motivation for directing two more “Hangover” films, and it’s not just about money from the studio. After investing months in planning and filming a movie alongside a dedicated team, a strong bond forms among everyone. Phillips elaborated that by the end of working on “The Hangover,” the cast and crew had grown very close and were eager to collaborate again. The director put it simply: they felt like a family, and he was thrilled at the opportunity to work with them once more.

“To be fair, many people often view sequels with skepticism, assuming they are merely money-making ventures. However, what most don’t comprehend about filmmaking is that, over time, you develop close friendships and a sense of camaraderie – it’s almost like being given a chance to reunite with dear friends and share laughter once more. This is the primary motivation, although I acknowledge that studios might have different expectations for a sequel’s success. Yet, the truth lies in our desire to reconnect and work together again.”

Todd Phillips Wants to Re-Unite With The Hangover Cast Again

Joker 2's Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many SequelsJoker 2's Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many SequelsJoker 2's Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many SequelsJoker 2's Todd Phillips Explains Why Filmmakers Makes So Many Sequels

Previously acclaimed for his work in comedy writing and directing, Todd Phillips gained further recognition by reimagining Batman’s arch-nemesis in the film Joker. His impressive directorial portfolio includes movies like Starsky & Hutch, Old School, and Due Date. However, his most successful comedic work remains the The Hangover trilogy. Featuring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helm, and Zach Galifanakis, the initial film followed the trio as they journeyed to Las Vegas for a bachelor party. After a night of excessive partying, the friends woke up without any memory of their exploits, prompting them to locate their lost friend Doug (Justin Bartha) before his wedding. The first movie was released in 2009 and was well-received by critics. In 2011, the trio reunited for The Hangover Part II, which also received positive reviews. Unfortunately, the trilogy’s final installment, The Hangover Part III, did not fare as well critically, and many speculated that a fourth movie would not be made.

During the chat, Phillips playfully hinted at the possibility of another film in the future. The director expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Cooper, Helm, and Galafanakis again someday. Although he acknowledged that it may not necessarily be for a fourth Hangover movie, any collaboration between them on the big screen would undoubtedly be met with enthusiasm by fans. Phillips commented:

“Though I can’t guarantee there will be a fourth Hangover movie, the bond I share with each actor I’ve worked with is strong, and that’s especially true for those three gentlemen we went through so much together. We journeyed across the globe making films and marketing them, and it feels like a missed opportunity if we don’t reunite to collaborate again. I can’t say for certain it’s Hangover 4, but there might be a chance for us to work together once more.”

Meanwhile,
Joker: Folie à Deux
arrives in cinemas on October 4.

Read More

2024-08-21 17:32