Lady Gaga expressed her deep admiration for the original film “Joker” starring Joaquin Phoenix, as the new sequel, “Joker: Folie a Deux,” premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The film is one of 21 contenders for the top prize at the festival, with its dark and subversive take on the superhero genre presenting a searing commentary on alienation in American society. Phoenix’s performance in the original film won him a Best Actor Oscar, setting a high bar for the sequel.
Lady Gaga shared how the first film deeply moved her and how she appreciated the director’s portrayal of misunderstood characters. She felt that the film allowed audiences to see the world in a new light, which inspired her to be part of the sequel. The new film heavily relies on musical numbers to express the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters, with Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn adding a unique dimension to the story.
The musical work in the film was described as “extremely nuanced,” with Lady Gaga emphasizing the importance of allowing the characters to express themselves through song. She mentioned the unlearning of techniques and breathing to bring out the character’s emotions in their performance. The film’s success at the box office, grossing $1 billion, highlighted the impact of the characters and the gritty setting of Gotham City.
Director Todd Phillips and co-writer Scott Silver aimed to create a daring and audacious screenplay that would entice Phoenix to reprise his role as Joker. The pressure of living up to expectations for the sequel brought a sense of nervousness to the team, as they sought to deliver a film that would resonate with audiences. The festival was filled with Hollywood stars, with Lady Gaga’s appearance on the red carpet generating significant attention and anticipation.
As Lady Gaga’s return to the big screen was met with excitement, her portrayal of Harley Quinn added a new layer to the story of the Joker. The film’s exploration of complex characters and societal themes resonated with audiences, sparking conversations and debates about its impact. The use of music as a storytelling device further enhanced the emotional depth of the film, creating a unique viewing experience for fans of the franchise.
Overall, the sequel to “Joker” brought a fresh perspective to the superhero genre, with Lady Gaga’s involvement adding a powerful element to the story. The exploration of misunderstood characters and societal issues through a dark and subversive lens captivated audiences and critics alike. As the film received acclaim at the Venice Film Festival, it solidified its place in cinematic history, continuing the legacy of the original while paving the way for future installments in the franchise.
