It may be separate from the DC Extended Universe, but Joker continues to be a source of fascination. Warner Bros. has already set the film apart from other comic adaptations. With the movie about to have its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, expectations are understandably high. And if all goes well, the studio could have another franchise on its hands.
Director and co-writer Todd Phillips recently spoke to Total Film about whether he’s harboring any plans for a Joker sequel. Surprisingly, he seemed very receptive to the idea. Of course, it’s all contingent on the critical and financial success of the first film.
“One thing I will tell you: I would do anything with Joaquin [Phoenix], any day of the week,” said Phillips. “There’s nobody like him. If he was willing to do it, and if people show up to this movie, and Warners came to us and said, ‘You know what? If you guys could think of something…’ Well, I have a feeling that he and I could think of something pretty cool.”
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Phillips’ remarks contradict WB’s earlier insistence that Joker would be a one-off feature with no chance of future installments. By reneging on this promise, they run the risk of confusing casual fanss, who might wonder why Phoenix’s take on the Clown Prince of Crime isn’t starring opposite Robert Pattinson in Matt Reeves’ The Batman. However, it could also give the filmmakers the opportunity to bring their own version of the Dark Knight into Joker‘s early ’80s crime-noir setting.
Would you be open to Warner Bros. producing a Joker sequel? Should Todd Phillips and company tackle Batman in another film? Tell us what you think in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: The Joker: A Visual History of the Clown Prince of Crime
