The upcoming DC sequel Joker: Folie À Deux directed by Todd Phillips is generating buzz with its unexpected casting choices, notably pop superstar Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. Although the casting initially raised eyebrows, early screenings have left industry insiders impressed, particularly casting director Francine Maisler.
Maisler, who recently viewed a cut of the film, shared her initial skepticism and subsequent astonishment at Gaga’s performance during the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. “I didn’t suggest Lady Gaga. It wasn’t my idea. That was Todd Phillips,” Maisler admitted. She continued, praising Gaga’s portrayal, “She’s really surprising — and really good. I saw it and I was really surprised. I mean, we all knew what she could do in A Star is Born, but I thought, ‘Oh, well, that’s kind of in her wheelhouse.’ Something she could do and just be real. But this… Man, she’s good. Joaquin blows your mind, but that she could keep up with him, and be real — and not just wiped off the screen by what that role is and what the performance is — shows she’s good.”
Joker: Folie À Deux distinguishes itself as a jukebox musical, a new direction for the DC film universe, which may include original songs. Gaga’s casting, known for her vocal prowess and dramatic flair, aligns with the film’s musical elements, despite initial reservations from the casting director.
Gaga’s approach to Harley Quinn aims to set her apart from previous portrayals, particularly those by Margot Robbie. Gaga explained in an interview with Access Hollywood, “You know my version of Harley is mine and it’s very authentic to this movie and these characters. I’ve never done anything like this in a movie before, so it’s all going to be completely brand new and really fun.”
The film promises a continuation of Joaquin Phoenix’s acclaimed performance as the Joker, which earned him an Oscar for Best Actor in 2020. This pairing marks a high-profile return to the characters that have previously captivated audiences, now reimagined in a musical context that promises to bring a fresh perspective to the iconic villain’s story.
Joker: Folie à Deux is set to release on 4 October,
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.
