Joaquin Phoenix on Singing with Lady Gaga in 'Joker' Sequel: 'Folie à Deux'

Joaquin Phoenix discussed his experience singing with Lady Gaga in 'Joker: Folie à Deux', the sequel to the 2019 hit 'Joker'. The film, set largely in Arkham Asylum, is directed by Todd Phillips and releases on October 4, 2024. Phoenix reprises his role as Joker, with Gaga as Harley Quinn.

Joaquin Phoenix, renowned for his role as the Joker in the 2019 psychological thriller, has reprised his character in the sequel, 'Joker: Folie à Deux'. Directed and co-produced by Todd Phillips, the film also stars Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. Phoenix recently shared his experience of singing in front of Lady Gaga, revealing to The Hollywood Reporter, 'I do seem to remember her spitting up coffee the first time I sang, so that felt good, that was exciting, and made me feel confident.'

Phoenix and Lady Gaga worked together to create a musical harmony that would enhance their character development. 'Gaga was always very encouraging of just, 'Go with what you feel, it's fine',' Phoenix mentioned. 'For somebody who's not a performer in that way, it can be uncomfortable to do that, but also very exciting.'

Phoenix emphasized the significance of music for his character, Arthur Fleck. 'It was important to protect that with poor phrasing and occasional bum notes,' he explained. 'Arthur grew up hearing his mother play these songs on the radio. He's not a singer, and he shouldn't sound like a professional singer. He should sound like somebody that's taking a shower and just bursts out into song.'

The original 'Joker' film achieved monumental success, earning 11 Oscar nominations. Joaquin Phoenix won Best Actor, and Hildur Gudnadottir received the award for Original Score. The sequel, set primarily in Arkham Asylum, features a cast that includes Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, and Harry Lawtey, with Zazie Beetz reprising her role as Sophie. 'Joker: Folie à Deux' is expected to be a musical, reflecting Phoenix's memorable dancing scenes in the first film.

The highly anticipated sequel will be released in theaters on October 4, 2024, following its premiere at the Venice Film Festival where the original movie previously won the Golden Lion in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies.)