Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga shine in new ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’, A musical thriller sequel to the blockbuster ‘Joker’

Fans of the Oscar-winning film ‘Joker’ are in for a treat as the makers of the sequel, ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’, have released new photos of the lead actors Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, who play the iconic roles of Joker and Harley Quinn.

The photos, which were shared by DC Comics on their official Instagram account, show the on-screen couple in various scenes from the film, which is described as a drama with musical elements set in and around Arkham Asylum, the notorious psychiatric hospital where Joker and Harley meet.

The first photo shows Phoenix, dressed as his character Joker, facing Gaga, who plays Harley Quinn as she looks away. Both of them appear to be on stage with the spotlight on them, suggesting a musical performance or a theatrical act.

The second photo captures a cute moment between the two, as they smile at each other through the bars of a cell. While Phoenix stands on one side of the bars, Gaga is seen on the other side, holding a flower in her hand.

The third photo depicts a romantic scene, as Gaga and Phoenix dance on the rooftop. Gaga wears a white wedding dress while Phoenix is all suited up, implying a possible marriage between the two.

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A star-studded cast and crew

The film, which is slated to release on October 4, 2024, is directed by Todd Phillips, who also helmed the first ‘Joker’ film. The screenplay is co-written by Phillips and Scott Silver, who also collaborated on the first film.

The supporting cast includes returning ‘Joker’ star Zazie Beetz, who plays Sophie Dumond, a single mother and former love interest of Joker. The film also features franchise newcomers Brendan Gleeson, who plays Dr. Hugo Strange, the head of Arkham Asylum; Lady Gaga, who plays Dr. Harleen Quinzel, a psychiatrist who falls in love with Joker and becomes Harley Quinn; Jacob Lofland, who plays Robin, a young boy who befriends Joker and Harley; and Harry Lawtey, who plays Batman, the vigilante who opposes Joker and Harley.

A record-breaking predecessor and a highly-anticipated sequel

The original ‘Joker’ film, which was released in 2019, was a huge success, both critically and commercially. The film grossed over USD 1 billion worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing R-rated film in box office history. The film also received 11 Oscar nominations, including best picture, and won Phoenix the best actor award for his portrayal of Joker.

The sequel, which is the only DC comic book tentpole releasing in 2024, has generated a lot of buzz and excitement among the fans and the media, thanks to the first film’s success and the added star power of Lady Gaga, who is one of the most popular and influential singers and actors in the world.

The film is expected to explore the relationship between Joker and Harley, as well as their conflicts with Batman and the authorities. The film is also expected to feature musical numbers, as Lady Gaga are known for her singing abilities.