Summary
AJoker 2test screening allegedly occurred, and reactions from the preview suggest fans of the first film will be pleased with the sequel, which may have some familiar faces alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga.
Joker2instantly caught fan attention after reports claimed it would incorporate musical elements with Lady Gaga co-starring opposite Phoenix as Harley Quinn, the titular character’s henchwoman and love interest in the comics. Add rumors of otherBatman villains appearing inJoker 2, and fans are curious to see how co-writer and director Todd Phillips will match or surpass the Oscar-winning first film.

Now, earlyJoker 2reactions have been shared by people who allegedly attended a test screening, and they may increase the already palpable anticipation for the movie. According to GoldDerby (via@live4ga), “Famous characters appear in it. Some changes to lore since these movies are standalone from certain other DC franchises.“While the names of the “famous characters” were not divulged, fans will undoubtedly wonder which DC characters will join the lead duo inJoker 2, if that is who the ‘famous characters’ comments refer to.
Of course, fans are curious to seeLady Gaga’s performance as Harley Quinn inJoker 2, and it appears the iconic actress and singer will not disappoint. “Gaga is indeed equal to Phoenix or even more central. No way to fraud her in supporting,” GoldDerby posted. Another comment shared byJoey Mondoechoes this sentiment, with the user writing, “Gaga and Joaquin are on the same level in performance.” Mondo also provided details on how the musical elements will be incorporated into Joker 2, writing, “The musical aspect is not presented in a conventional way. They sing, of course, but it works in a different pattern. Very risky, but [f***ing] genius.”
Based on these comments,Joker 2will live up to the expectationsof fans who loved the first film. Of course, the standout comment may be the mention of ‘famous characters.’ The firstJokerfilm featured Thomas, Martha, and a young Bruce Wayne, depicting a fresh take on the events that led to the elder Waynes' murders and (presumably) the start of Bruce’s journey toward becoming Batman. So, it’s not surprising to hearJoker 2may introduce more DC characters. Still, consideringJokerand its sequel offer fresh takes on familiar characters, it will be interesting to see what Phillips and co-writer Scott Silver may have in mind for any other familiar faces.
On the other hand, only some were pleased with the firstJokerfilm. Although it grossed over $1 billion at the worldwide box office and garnered accolades (including a Best Picture nomination and Best Actor win for Phoenix at the Oscars), some critics feltJokerwas too similar to other movies, particularly Martin Scorsese’sTaxi DriverandThe King of Comedy. It remains to be seen ifJoker 2will win over those critics. Still, Phillips, Phoenix, Gaga, and the rest of the creative team are trying to ensure the sequel differentiates itself from the first film while sticking with the character-focused elements that made it a success.
Joker: Folie à Deuxis scheduled to be released in theaters on Jul 31, 2025.
DC
DC is a brand of superhero comics, television shows, movies, video games, merchandise, and more. The company owns the rights to popular characters like Batman, The Suicide Squad, Green Arrow, Wonder Woman, and many more.