Exclusive Insight: Joker 2 Composer Hints at Mind-Blowing Musical Continuation

Summary

Joker: Folie à Deux will build on the established sound world of the first film, using the original score as a jumping-off point for new elements like songs.

In Joker: Folie à Deux, the musical elements will delve into the shared delusional disorder of the Joker and Harley Quinn, creating an unsettling and possibly romantic or Sweeney Todd-inspired atmosphere. The score will vividly portray the mental and emotional transformations of the characters, with a focus on Harley Quinn's evolution from Harleen Quinzel.

In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant for A Haunting In Venice, Hildur Guðnadóttir, the composer of Joker: Folie à Deux, discusses how establishing the sound of the world in the first Joker movie helped set the foundation for the sequel. Joaquin Phoenix will reprise his role as Arthur Fleck, also known as the Joker, in the sequel, which takes place in Arkham following his numerous crimes. Lady Gaga will join the cast as Hareen Quinzel, or Harley Quinn. Although specific details about the movie have been kept secret, it has been revealed that it will have a musical element.

Guðnadóttir teases her work on the upcoming Joker: Folie à Deux in the interview, highlighting how the sound of this world was initially established in the first Joker film. This foundation serves as a starting point for the sequel, allowing for the exploration of new aspects of the world, such as the songs in Joker: Folie à Deux. Guðnadóttir emphasizes the essential role that sound plays in shaping the Joker character, and this understanding greatly influenced their approach to the musical elements of the sequel.

Hildur Guðnadóttir: The process was the most significant difference for me while working on this film. In the first film, we had already established the sound world, which was closely intertwined with the character and played a crucial role in the overall narrative. This time, we had a solid foundation to build upon instead of starting from scratch. It was exciting to work within an existing world and explore new elements, such as the songs and other aspects. Overall, the process was quite enjoyable.

How Joker 2 Can Build From The First Movie's Score

The inclusion of musical elements in the sequel may initially appear to be a significant departure from the dark and gritty atmosphere of the first film. However, "Foil a Deux" likely serves as a clever reference to the shared delusional disorder, hinting at the way Joker and Harley Quinn are drawn to each other. With Lady Gaga taking on the role of Harley Quinn, it is possible that these musical elements exist solely in the characters' minds as they become consumed by their intense connection and shared delusion. This could introduce an unsettling undertone to the musical aspect, whether it leans towards a romantic tone, a show-stopping Broadway number, or something reminiscent of "Sweeney Todd".

Guðnadóttir's Academy Award win for the score in Joker has ensured her return for the sequel. By establishing a distinct musical identity for Arthur and the overall world, she can further develop new characters like Harley Quinn while emphasizing the importance of music. In Joker: Folie à Deux, the score can effectively depict the mental and emotional journeys of each character, specifically highlighting Harley Quinn's transformation from Harleen Quinze. The integration of the original score with lyrical musical elements could also symbolize the gradual loss of identity for Arthur and Harleen. Although specific details about the film's music are unknown, it is possible that the score will utilize elements from the first film to represent moments rooted in reality, while employing a more grandiose Broadway style for their delusions. Despite the film's mysteries, it is thrilling to know that Guðnadóttir will remain faithful to the award-winning Joker score for Joker: Folie à Deux.