In a night bursting with excitement and high expectations, Todd Phillips’ much-anticipated sequel, “Joker: Folie a Deux,” made its grand debut at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, captivating audiences and critics alike. The screening was held at the illustrious Sala Grande, where the film’s stars, Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, accompanied by director Todd Phillips, received an overwhelming 10.5-minute standing ovation. This jubilant reception emphasized not only the film’s artistic impact but also the immense anticipation and high stakes riding on this sequel.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the audience’s sheer enthusiasm was palpable, with cheers and chants echoing throughout the theatre. Cries of “Ga-ga, Ga-ga, Ga-ga!” reverberated intermittently, coupled with declarations of adoration like “Gaga, we love you!” This unrestrained affection visibly moved Lady Gaga, who reciprocated with heartfelt thank-yous and blown kisses, occasionally sharing lighthearted moments with Joaquin Phoenix amidst the applause.
This triumphant premiere serves as the latest accolade for Phillips, who last dazzled the Venice Film Festival five years ago with the original “Joker,” a film that not only won the prestigious Golden Lion award but also garnered critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. The original “Joker,” starring Joaquin Phoenix, earned an impressive 11 Academy Award nominations, with Phoenix seizing the Best Actor Oscar and Hildur Gudnadottir securing the award for Best Original Score. The movie not only redefined the superhero genre but also clinched the title of the highest-grossing R-rated film ever, raking in over a billion dollars globally.
Returning to his iconic role, Joaquin Phoenix once again steps into the shoes of Arthur Fleck, the tortured soul who transforms into the menacing Joker. This time, he is joined by pop superstar Lady Gaga, who portrays Harley Quinn. The supporting cast features notable names such as Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, and Harry Lawtey, with Zazie Beetz reprising her role as Sophie. Marked by its musical elements, the sequel builds on the eerie dance sequences from the original film, promising a unique blend of psychological drama and musical spectacle.
In a press conference held prior to the premiere, Phillips expressed his sentiments about returning to Venice to debut the sequel, noting, “It feels correct,” but also admitted to feeling unprecedented nervousness. “It’s a lot easier to come into something as an insurgent than it is as the incumbent,” he elaborated, signaling the high expectations and pressure accompanying a sequel to such a beloved and groundbreaking film.
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In “Joker: Folie a Deux,” Lady Gaga’s character, Lee, is introduced as a patient in Arkham State Hospital, where Arthur Fleck is confined as a maximum-security inmate awaiting trial for multiple murders. The narrative unfolds as Lee and Arthur develop a complex romantic relationship through a music therapy group. Lee recognizes Arthur as the infamous Joker and seeks to reawaken his dark alter-ego.
The film also features briefly the return of Sophie Dumond, played by Zazie Beetz, when she testifies as a witness for the prosecution led by the ambitious young assistant district attorney, Harvey Dent, portrayed by Harry Lawtey. This role naturally sets the stage for Dent’s eventual transformation into the notorious villain Two-Face.
During the press interactions, Phillips and Phoenix revealed that their decision to make a sequel was driven by a desire to create something audacious that pushes the boundaries, maintaining the element of surprise that characterized the first film. “It had to feel audacious and like we were really swinging for the fences,” Phillips commented.
Lady Gaga, reflecting on her experience working alongside Phoenix, described it as “a breeze,” noting the unique and liberating experience of acting with him. “He’s incredibly loose and free,” she shared, highlighting the harmonious dynamic on set.
Regarding the physical toll of the role, Phoenix chose not to specify the exact amount of weight he lost for his performance but acknowledged, “It felt a bit more difficult, but it is safe.” Reflecting on the rigors of his commitment, he stated, “I’m now 49, I probably shouldn’t do this again. This is probably it for me,” though he praised his co-star For her dedication, stating, “We did rehearsals, and we left for a month and came back and you’d lost a lot of weight, it was really impressive.” Lady Gaga humorously added, “We fed (Joaquin) blueberries when he was hungry,” showcasing the camaraderie between the co-stars.
As the thrilling evening came to a close, the resounding applause and cheers left an indelible mark, not just on the venue but on the legacies of those involved. “Joker: Folie a Deux” is set to be released on October 4, poised to captivate audiences worldwide and continue the legacy of its groundbreaking predecessor.
Published – September 05, 2024 11:08 am IST
