Makers allocate a whopping budget for Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga’s Joker 2; the sequel set to be three times costlier than original
If the report is to be believed, Joaquin Phoenix and director Todd Phillips are drawing a hefty paycheque of $20 million each for the much-anticipated project.
Inspired by Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver and starring Joaquin Phoenix as the titular villain, Todd Philips’ Joker was one of the most successful films of 2019, which became the first R-rated film to gross over $ 1 billion worldwide and went on to scoop 11 Oscar nominations.
Rumours of a sequel to Joker started doing the rounds right after the humongous success of the film. Now Joker: Folie à Deux has been confirmed, with Joaquin Phoenix already set to return as the profoundly troubled Arthur Fleck, aka the eponymous Joker. He will be joined by his partner in crime to be played by none other than Lady Gaga, reportedly as a version of Harley Quinn in the film.
The latest update on Joker 2 suggests that the film will be mounted on a huge scale and a massive budget has been sanctioned for its production. According to Variety, the upcoming sequel could get as much as three times the original film’s budget. Yes, you read that right!
If the report is to be believed, Joaquin Phoenix and director Todd Phillips are drawing a hefty paycheque of $20 million each for the much-anticipated project. As far as Lady Gaga’s remuneration is concerned, she is getting $10 million for the film. This means that Joker: Folie à Deux will cost around $150 million to produce. The film is set to start filming in December. The makers have locked October 4, 2024, for the theatrical release of the film.
Meanwhile, buzz has it that Zazie Beetz is in talks to reprise her role as Sophie Dumond who was the neighbour of Arthur Fleck; a single mom struggling in Gotham City. He had delusions of having a romance with her. More details are expected to arrive soon.
Keep visiting this space over and again for more updates and reveals from the world of entertainment.
R Madhavan shares his experience portraying a father’s role for the first time alongside Ajay Devgn.
Actor addresses rumours about de-ageing technology, confirming he relied on diet and fitness instead.
Madhavan reflects on sequels and preparation for previous physically demanding roles like Saala Khadoos.
Nervous about a father’s role
At the trailer launch of De De Pyaar De 2, R Madhavan admitted he was initially nervous about playing Ajay Devgn’s on-screen father-in-law.
“I have never done a father’s role before, and competing with Ajay, I was very nervous,” Madhavan said. “I have seen other actors who are so busy when they come to the set, but Ajay sir is always present and dedicated. We have always felt connected.”
The actor also commented on the appeal of sequels. Devgn, who stars alongside Madhavan, stated, “I don’t mind sequels as long as there is a good script. I hope the film is liked by audiences. We all believe we have made a good film.”
Madhavan addressed recent rumours about de-ageing technology in his films, stating, “They’ve all been accusing me of de-ageing, but I don’t think I have the budget for that. It hasn’t happened.”
Instead, the actor relies on traditional methods of preparation, including fitness and diet adjustments, to meet the physical demands of roles.
Reflections on past roles
Madhavan reflected on the preparation for his earlier role in Saala Khadoos, a physically demanding sports drama. “When I went to train for Saala Khadoos, I consulted numerous dieticians and several people who advised me on how to lose weight and get fit, what diet to follow, what time to eat, and so on, but I couldn’t find anyone I truly resonated with,” he said.
The actor’s candid reflections reveal a focus on dedication and personal preparation rather than technological shortcuts, highlighting his commitment to authentic performances.
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