The question of how to watch the Joker movies in order is deceptively simple. Start with Joker (2019), and then proceed to Joker: Folie à Deux (2024). This straightforward chronological sequence, however, belies the complex narrative and ambiguous connections between the films, and their relationship to broader DC lore, which we will explore further.
A Chronological Journey Through Madness
While comic book continuities are notoriously labyrinthine, the Joker film franchise currently enjoys a surprisingly streamlined order. Warner Bros. and DC Studios have presented these films as largely standalone ventures, existing outside the established DC Extended Universe (DCEU), now rebranded as the DC Universe (DCU) under James Gunn. This independence grants a unique artistic freedom to each film, allowing them to delve into the psychological depths of the Joker character without the constraints of pre-existing narratives.
Joker (2019): An Origin Story… of Sorts
Joker (2019), directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix in his Academy Award-winning role, serves as the origin story (or, more accurately, a possible origin story) for the Joker. The film follows Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian and mentally ill individual, as he descends into madness amidst the societal decay of a grimy, 1980s Gotham City. Its ambiguous narrative intentionally blurs the line between reality and delusion, leaving the audience to question the veracity of Arthur’s experiences. This uncertainty is crucial to the character’s enduring appeal and makes him a truly unreliable narrator. The film is a powerful character study, exploring themes of mental illness, social inequality, and the consequences of societal neglect.
Joker: Folie à Deux (2024): A Duet of Madness
Joker: Folie à Deux (2024), also directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix, promises to delve further into the Joker’s descent, this time accompanied by Harley Quinn, played by Lady Gaga. The title, which translates to “madness shared by two,” hints at a central theme of shared psychosis. Based on trailers and information released, the film is partly set within Arkham Asylum and reportedly incorporates musical elements, further pushing the boundaries of what a comic book film can be. While details remain relatively scarce, the film seems set to expand upon the already established themes of mental instability and societal breakdown, solidifying the franchise’s unique identity within the superhero genre. It is imperative to watch Joker (2019) before viewing Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) to fully grasp the characters’ motivations and the established world.
Understanding the Jokerverse
The term “Jokerverse” is often used to describe this nascent film series, emphasizing its distinct identity and separation from the wider DCU. While technically not an official designation, it effectively conveys the films’ standalone nature and their focus on a specific, self-contained narrative. This allows the filmmakers to explore the character of the Joker without the constraints of pre-existing continuity, creating a space for bold experimentation and unconventional storytelling. The success of Joker has demonstrated the audience’s appetite for these types of character-driven, psychologically complex narratives within the superhero genre.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Joker Universe
To further clarify the viewing order and address common questions, here’s a comprehensive FAQ section:
1. Are the Joker Movies Part of the DCEU/DCU?
No, the Joker films are not part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) or the newly rebranded DC Universe (DCU) led by James Gunn. They exist in their own, separate continuity often referred to as the “Jokerverse.” This allows for a more mature and experimental approach to the character without impacting the broader superhero narratives.
2. Do I Need to Watch Other DC Movies Before Watching Joker?
Absolutely not. One of the great strengths of the Joker films is their accessibility. You don’t need any prior knowledge of DC comics or the broader DC cinematic universe to enjoy or understand them. They function as self-contained stories.
3. Is There a Specific Timeline Connection Between the Joker Movies?
Currently, the connection is straightforward: Joker (2019) precedes Joker: Folie à Deux (2024). The latter continues the story established in the first film. While flashbacks or non-linear storytelling could be employed, the core narrative appears to follow a chronological order.
4. Are There Any Easter Eggs or References to Other DC Characters?
Joker (2019) features Thomas Wayne, Bruce Wayne’s father. This connection is present but not integral to the main plot. The film presents its own unique take on the Wayne family, diverging from established comic book canon. Whether Joker: Folie à Deux will include further DC references remains to be seen.
5. Is Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker the Same Joker as Jared Leto’s or Heath Ledger’s?
No, Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker is a completely different interpretation of the character, existing in a separate continuity. There are no narrative links between his portrayal and those of Jared Leto (DCEU) or Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight trilogy).
6. Why is the Joker Movie Series Separate from the Main DC Universe?
The decision to keep the Joker films separate stemmed from a desire for greater creative freedom and a more grounded, realistic tone. Warner Bros. recognized the potential for exploring the character in a way that wouldn’t be constrained by the demands of a shared cinematic universe. This separation allowed for an R-rating and a more psychologically intense narrative.
7. Will There Be More Joker Movies After Folie à Deux?
The future of the “Jokerverse” remains uncertain. The success of Joker and the anticipation surrounding Joker: Folie à Deux certainly make further installments a possibility. However, no official plans have been announced beyond the release of the sequel. The direction of the series will likely depend on the critical and commercial reception of Folie à Deux.
8. Is Joker (2019) Considered Canon?
The definition of “canon” is fluid, especially in the context of comic book adaptations. While Joker is not part of the DCEU/DCU canon, it exists as its own self-contained narrative universe. It presents a plausible, albeit disturbing, origin story for the Joker character. Whether future adaptations will adopt elements from this film remains to be seen.
9. What is “Folie à Deux” and How Does it Relate to the Movie?
As mentioned previously, “Folie à Deux” is a French term that translates to “madness shared by two.” It refers to a rare psychiatric syndrome in which two or more individuals share the same delusional beliefs. In the context of the film, it suggests that the relationship between Joker and Harley Quinn will be based on a shared psychosis, creating a potentially volatile and unpredictable dynamic.
10. Does Joker: Folie à Deux Involve Musical Elements?
Yes, reports and trailers indicate that Joker: Folie à Deux incorporates musical elements, potentially drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood musicals. This unconventional approach promises to add a unique layer of surrealism and theatricality to the already complex narrative.
11. Where Can I Watch the Joker Movies?
Joker (2019) is widely available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms, including iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. It is also often available on streaming services like Max (formerly HBO Max), depending on your region and subscription. Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) will be released in theaters and will eventually become available on digital platforms and streaming services.
12. Is There a Comic Book Series Based on the Joker Movie?
While there isn’t a direct comic book adaptation of the Joker movie, DC Comics has published numerous Joker-centric comic book series over the years, exploring various aspects of the character’s psychology and criminal activities. While these comics may share thematic similarities, they are not directly tied to the movie’s storyline. The movie, however, draws heavily from established comic book lore and tropes.