As Todd Phillips embarks on the next installment of the iconic Gotham City nemesis saga with Joker: Folie á Deux, the timeless tale of the Joker undergoes a fresh transformation. Marking a groundbreaking move for the DCEU by delving into the realm of musicals, anticipation runs high for this film featuring Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix in leading roles. 

Amidst speculation about the sequel's departure from the original storyline and aesthetic due to its musical focus, Phillips has come to aid fans with an assurance that Joker: Folie á Deux will remain faithful to its roots. 

At the ongoing CinemaCon event during the Warner Bros. panel, the first footage was unveiled on April 9 for the sequel of Joker while the full trailer was released later that night. With the movie’s lean on being largely a musical jukebox, skepticism has hovered around speculations about the possibility of any major deviation in the narrative. Dispelling any doubts whatsoever, Todd Phillips revealed that while the film embraces the musical genre to narrate its story, the essence and integrity of the original piece will remain intact.

Even though he did underscore the importance of music as "an essential element" in setting the stage for the narrative, Phillips also assured that “it doesn’t veer too far from the first film”. Additionally, as an R-rated film, the sequel faces high expectations, given the massive success of Joker as the highest-grossing R-rated movie to surpass $1 billion worldwide. Therefore, the decision by the makers to secure a $200 million budget, a significant leap from the first film's $60 million budget, appears even more warranted.

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Especially for Phillips, this was the righteous opportunity to acknowledge the success of Joker, and like a man of words, he did the same to express gratitude to his viewers. 

With a staggering 11 Academy Awards nominations and the distinction of being the highest-grossing R-rated movie to date, Todd Phillips' Joker not only sparked a box office frenzy but also etched its name in cinematic history. As Phillips undertakes the responsibility of breathing life into a sequel for the acclaimed 2019 film, seizing the opportunity at the CinemaCon event, he acknowledged the exhibitors for their unwavering support despite the swirling narratives surrounding the film's potential for violence before its release.

Addressing the audience, he expressed his appreciation, stating, "You didn’t budge and I thank you for it." While reaffirming his commitment to honoring the essence of the original film in its sequel, Phillips tantalizingly hinted at the role of imagery and sound in portraying a Joker who has "music in him." With the official teasers and Phillips' thrilling hints, it appears that Joker: Folie á Deux is poised to uphold the legacy of its predecessor.

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What do you think of Todd Phillips' revelation of his intention to remain faithful to Joker for Joker: Folie á Deux? Let us know in the comments below!