The Joker's serenade: A love song for the criminally insane

There have been various interpretations of the Joker throughout the years, but Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal in "Joker" was a unique departure. Instead of a criminal mastermind, we saw a lonely, troubled man whose internal struggles led to violence. "Joker: Folie À Deux" continues this exploration of Arthur Fleck's psyche as he enters Arkham Asylum and forms a bond with Lady Gaga's Harley Quinn.

Director Todd Phillips emphasized to Empire that the film won't transform Fleck into a criminal mastermind. Instead, it focuses on his newfound love and the music within him. This purity of character exploration leads to an unexpected twist: the film incorporates musical elements.

Joaquin Phoenix explains that Arthur's singing reflects his upbringing, with imperfect phrasing and occasional bum notes. Lady Gaga, a professional singer, encouraged Phoenix to embrace his unique style. Their collaboration promises a captivating cinematic duet.

To learn more about the making of this rule-breaking sequel, read Empire's exclusive cover feature in the September 2024 issue. "Joker: Folie À Deux" arrives in UK cinemas on October 4th.