We might not be getting a Joker sequel after all. Multiple inside sources claim that there is currently no deal for a follow-up to the record-breaking film or any other Todd Phillips-directed DC movies, Deadline reports. While it would make all the financial sense in the world to develop a sequel to the first-ever R-rated movie to hit $1 billion at the box office, for now there aren't even any negotiations with director Todd Phillips or his co-writer Scott Silver to craft one.
Yesterday we reported that Phillips is in talks to return as director for Joker 2 along with the film's star, Joaquin Phoenix to reprise the iconic role.
The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Phillips proposed developing "a portfolio of DC characters' origin stories" to Warner Bros. Pictures Group chairman Toby Emmerich after the Joker's impressive $96 million domestic opening weekend last month. So far, he's been granted the rights to develop "at least one other DC story," THR said.
It would make sense for Warner Bros. to want to continue on with this dark and gritty Joker adaptation. From the box office success, to strong Oscar buzz, to the fact that DC films have been playing catch up to the MCU, the Joker formula works. For now, it remains to be seen whether Todd Phillips will eventually be returning for a sequel or more origin stories.
