The Joker prequel film is set to begin filming this September. Just days ago it was revealed that the movie’s budget would be $55 million and that DC hoped to begin production this fall.

With no less than six movies featuring the Joker currently in development, this one is likely the most anticipated by fans. The movie is set to tackle the Joker’s tragic backstory as a failed comedian, which means it will likely draw at least some inspiration from Alan Moore’s seminal graphic novel, Batman: The Killing Joke. We know that Hangover trilogy helmer Todd Phillips is set to direct and that the legendary Martin Scorsese will be co-producing. Oscar-nominated screenwriter Scott Silver (The Fighter) will be co-writing with Phillips. Joaquin Phoenix is reportedly portraying the Clown Prince of Crime.

Omega Underground reports that the cameras will start rolling in New York City this September. The movie was originally set to begin filming in May, so it’s not too far off schedule, although its budget is smaller than most current comic book adaptations. As for Phoenix, this isn’t the first comic book character that the actor was considered for. He was previously considered for the role of Stephen Strange, which ultimately went to Benedict Cumberbatch.

The Joker in the Killing JokeThe-Joker-in-The-Killing-Joke

This origin story will be set in the ‘80s and the film will not be part of the DCEU, but rather another label potentially called DC Dark or DC Black. Phillips’s Joker film will kick off the new label. The DCEU has floundered a little, to say the least, so making movies no longer bound by the continuity of that universe is a smart move on DC’s part. One of several criticisms of the DC Extended Universe is its dark, gritty feel, which the company seems to be distancing themselves from with Aquaman and Shazam! This new label will be a way for DC to tell both kinds of stories.

After Jared Leto’s divisive turn as the Joker in Suicide Squad - a role he is rumored to be reprising in his own solo movie - fans are eager to see what an excellent actor like Phoenix could do with the part. Jack Nicholson’s performance in Tim Burton’s Batman was considered untouchable until Heath Ledger made the character completely his own in The Dark Knight. To be fair to Leto, who is a great actor as well, he was given the rather impossible task of following two incredibly iconic performances, not to mention Mark Hamill and Cesar Romero. Leto’s performance may not have been too well received, but history has proven that the Joker is one character who really lends himself to interpretation. We look forward to seeing Phoenix’s take.

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Source: Omega Underground