Joker 2: a sequel with excessive ambition
Warner Bros. appears to have tremendous faith in Folie a Deuxthe highly anticipated sequel to Jokerwhich will hit theaters next October.
As revealed by Varietythis film, again directed by Todd Phillips, has a budget of 200 million dollars (and no longer 150, as initially announced). A figure that is close to the budgets of classic blockbusters dedicated to superheroes with a riot of special effects, and less than the more “auteur” ones like the first film. As a reminder, the one released in 2019 had a budget of $60 million and grossed $1 billion in global box office receipts.
On the salary side, Variety indicates an envelope of 20 million dollars for Joaquin Phoenix, who will take on the role of Arthur Fleck/Joker, and 12 million dollars for Lady Gaga, expected to play Harley Quinn. For the first film, Phoenix pocketed “only” $4.5 million (and won an Oscar).
A big risk?
Although the plot has not yet been revealed, Joker: Folie a Deux should explore the relationship between the Joker and Harley Quinn in depth, two lost souls united by their shared madness in Arkham Asylum. The film is expected to revolve around their meeting and the evolution of their toxic relationship, all wrapped up in a musical comedy aesthetic (though there will be few singing moments).
However, the project presents some challenges, including the risk associated with musicals, a genre that does not guarantee commercial success. The recent example of The color purplewhich led to a loss of 40 million dollars for Warner, it highlights the high financial stakes.
To be profitable, Joker: Folie a Deux will have to double its budget, or at least $400 million at the worldwide box office. As with the first film, word of mouth should be crucial to its theatrical success.
In any case, this is an excellent signal from Warner Bros. which seems ready to align greenbacks for ambitious projects such as the sequel to Joker.
Source: Cine Serie
Ray Ortiz is a journalist at Gossipify, known for his coverage of trending news and current events. He is committed to providing readers with accurate and unbiased reporting, and is respected for his ability to keep readers informed on the latest news and issues.
