As Joker: Folie à Deux hits theaters, director Todd Phillips has spoken about his future with the DC Universe. During a recent event, Phillips confirmed that the sequel will mark the end of his work on the Joker films. He clarifies that the story concludes with these two movies and states that there are no plans for a third installment or further expansion of the characters.
Todd Phillips says ‘my time in the DC Universe’ has ended after Joker: Folie à Deux
Todd Phillips confirmed that Joker: Folie à Deux ends his time in the DC Universe.
At the film’s Los Angeles premiere, he told The Hollywood Reporter, “My time in the DC Universe was these two films,” clarifying that there are no plans for a third Joker movie. He added, “It was fun to play in this sort of sandbox for two movies.” He believes they have “said what [they] wanted to say in this world,” indicating that the story is complete after these two films. (via Variety)
The first Joker film, released in 2019, grossed over $1 billion and earned Joaquin Phoenix an Academy Award for Best Actor. Despite this success, Phillips had previously confirmed that there were no plans for Joker 3.
Phillips also addressed questions about a potential standalone film for Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn, stating that no such project is planned. “For me, I’ve always thought that these two movies kind of exist as their own thing,” he said. So, it appears Gaga’s character, Lee Quinzel, will remain within the scope of the two Joker films.
Phillips further explained that he adjusted Harley Quinn’s portrayal by removing exaggerated traits from previous versions to fit the tone of his Joker universe. He confirmed that these two films represent the entirety of his work with these characters.
With Joker 2, Todd Phillips concludes his involvement in the DC Universe. This film brings closure to the story he started in 2019. It explores Arthur Fleck’s relationship with Lee Quinzel and wraps up the narrative arc across the two movies.
Joker: Folie à Deux is now in cinemas.
