Joaquin Phoenix is no stranger to shaking up productions with his insistence on script rewrites, and Joker: Folie à Deux was no exception. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, both Lady Gaga and director Todd Phillips confirmed that Phoenix’s relentless pursuit of perfection led to several impromptu rewrites during the film’s production. Known for his intense dedication, Phoenix often found himself questioning scenes, pushing for deeper, more nuanced dialogue that could fully realize his portrayal of Arthur Fleck.
Phoenix’s Script Demands
According to Gaga, they frequently found themselves in Phoenix’s trailer, ripping up entire sections of the script. “We’d often tear the script up and start all over,” she shared, describing the experience as “liberating.” While this process might sound chaotic, it speaks to Phoenix’s artistic approach—he’s never content with settling for “good enough.” Phillips added that Phoenix is the kind of actor who keeps pushing: “You think, ‘Okay, this scene works, let’s shoot it,’ and Joaquin’s like, ‘No, let’s have a quick meeting,’ and three hours later, you’re rewriting it on a napkin.”
A Pattern in Phoenix’s Career
This isn’t the first time Phoenix has exerted creative control over a script. His dissatisfaction with the original Joker script almost caused him to drop out. Similarly, he threatened to leave Ridley Scott’s Napoleon unless Paul Thomas Anderson was brought on for rewrites. Even with projects like C’mon C’mon, Phoenix initially struggled with the script but ultimately stayed on board.
Impact on “Folie à Deux”
Phoenix’s dedication, while demanding, is often credited with elevating the films he works on. The musical sequel to the acclaimed Joker will feature Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, alongside Phoenix’s return as the Joker. While plot details remain under wraps, the collaborative rewriting process between Phoenix, Gaga, and Phillips undoubtedly added layers to the characters’ dynamics. Joker: Folie à Deux is set to be released in October 2024, and if Phoenix’s history is any indication, it’s bound to be as intense, unpredictable, and thrilling as his creative process.
