The director of 'Reservoir Dogs ', Quentin Tarantino, admitted he had uncertain expectations when he attended the screening of the comic book film 'Joker: Folie à Deux ', which stars Joaquin Phoenix alongside Lady Gaga. However, he soon found himself deeply engaged in both the storyline and the musical elements of the film.
During his appearance on 'The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast ', Tarantino expressed his enthusiasm for the film, stating that he truly enjoyed it, more than he had anticipated. Initially, he expected to appreciate the filmmaking from an intellectual perspective but didn't think it would succeed as a cohesive film. Despite his tendency to enjoy unconventional movies, he was pleasantly surprised to discover that the film captivated him. He particularly enjoyed the musical sequences, noting that he found the simpler songs to be quite effective, even reflecting on the lyrics of “For Once in My Life” in a new light.
Tarantino showered accolades on Phoenix for his portrayal of the Joker, describing it as one of the best performances he has ever witnessed in his life. He also praised director Todd Phillips, suggesting that Phillips embodies the spirit of the film's main character. Tarantino mentioned that the way Phillips utilized the studio's resources mirrored the Joker's unpredictable nature. He highlighted Phillips' boldness, referring to a metaphorical “jack-in-the-box” moment that subversively challenges conventional movie audiences and the entire Hollywood establishment. In Tarantino's eyes, Phillips has effectively crafted a film that can be seen as a reflection of the Joker himself.
The Joker directed the movie. The entire concept, even him spending the studio’s money - he’s spending it like the Joker would spend it, all right? And then his big surprise gift — haha! — the jack-in-the-box, when he offers you his hand for a handshake and you get a buzzer with 10,000 volts shooting you - is the comic book geeks. He’s saying f*** you to all of them. He’s saying f*** you to the movie audience. He’s saying f*** you to Hollywood. He’s saying f*** you to anybody who owns any stock at DC and Warner Brothers […] And Todd Phillips is the Joker. Un film de Joker, all right, is what it is. He is the Joker.
