The 81st Venice Film Festival witnessed a tense moment as Joaquin Phoenix sidestepped inquiries about his recent departure from Todd Haynes' untitled NC-17 gay love story. The actor's decision to exit the project just days before production has stirred controversy in Hollywood, potentially impacting his career trajectory.
At the premiere of "Joker: Folie à Deux," Phoenix addressed the issue with caution, stating:
"If I do [explain], I'll just be sharing my opinion from my perspective, and the other creatives aren't here to say their piece, and it just doesn't feel like that would be right. I am not sure how that would be helpful. I don't think I will."
[[Joaquin Phoenix on his project exit]]
The sequel to the 2019 hit "Joker" introduces Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, reimagined as "Lee" in this iteration. The film, set to release in U.S. theaters on October 4, 2024, takes an unexpected turn as a musical, blending 1950s and 1960s standards with the dark narrative of Arthur Fleck's descent into madness.
Director Todd Phillips acknowledged the pressure of following up on the original's success, which garnered 11 Oscar nominations and grossed over $1 billion worldwide. "I think it's a lot easier to come into something as the insurgent as opposed to coming in as the incumbent," Phillips remarked.
The film's musical elements have raised eyebrows, with Phoenix and Gaga performing live renditions of classics like "What the World Needs Now Is Love" and "That's Life." Gaga emphasized that the music serves to express the characters' emotions beyond dialogue.
Phoenix's physical transformation for the role remains a topic of interest, though the actor was reluctant to discuss details. "It's not really that dangerous. I worked with a doctor. Thank you for the question," he stated, deflecting further inquiry.
The sequel's themes draw parallels to current events, with Phillips hinting at potential Trump-like elements in the narrative. Filmed partially near the New York State Supreme Court during Trump's indictment hearings, the movie explores the cult of personality surrounding the Joker character.
As the film industry watches closely, the controversy surrounding Phoenix's career choices and the unconventional approach to the "Joker" sequel continue to fuel discussions about artistic integrity and Hollywood dynamics.