Joker: Folie À Deux, Fans Are Warned From Venice: It Will Be Much Darker Than The First!

In 2019, Todd Phillips did what seemed almost impossible for a comic book movie—he delivered a dark, brooding, and pessimistic film with "Joker." The film polarized audiences at the Venice Film Festival, with some applauding its boldness and others criticizing its tone. As anticipation builds for the sequel, the question arises: What can we expect from this new chapter?

A Darker and More Inventive Sequel

The director of the Venice Film Festival, Alberto Barbera, recently shed some light on what to expect from the highly anticipated sequel, especially with Lady Gaga joining the cast as Harley Quinn. Barbera didn’t mince words when he warned audiences about the film’s tone. According to him, those expecting a continuation in the same vein as the first movie are in for a surprise.

“If you're just expecting a second part of the previous film, with the same kind of narrative and the same situations, then you're wrong,” Barbera said. “Everything is much darker. There's much more inventiveness in every way. I think it's an incredibly intelligent, courageous, creative, and original film.”

Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn: A Bold New Take

One of the most talked-about aspects of the sequel is the casting of Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. Known for her dynamic performances and bold artistic choices, Gaga is expected to bring a unique and possibly even darker twist to the character. Her portrayal of Harley Quinn, paired with Joaquin Phoenix’s return as the Joker, promises to deliver a film that pushes the boundaries of the comic book genre.

A Departure from the Original

While the original "Joker" film was groundbreaking in its approach, the sequel appears to be taking even greater creative risks. Barbera’s comments suggest that this film will not merely replicate the formula that made the first one successful but will instead venture into uncharted territory. This boldness in storytelling could further divide audiences, but it also has the potential to elevate the film to new artistic heights.

No Method Acting for Phoenix

In the midst of rumors surrounding Joaquin Phoenix's preparation for the role, the actor himself has denied using method acting for "Joker: Folie à Deux." Despite speculation, Phoenix has stated that his approach to this film differed from his process in the original, indicating a fresh take on his now-iconic character. This could mean audiences will see a new facet of the Joker, one that complements the darker tone hinted at by Barbera.