Set in a Gotham City gripped by chaos and despair, Joker 2 invites audiences to explore the intricate timeline of Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness. Titled Joker: Folie à Deux, this psychological thriller promises to delve deeper into the mind of the iconic villain. The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Joker (2019) has fans buzzing with excitement. But a crucial question remains: When does Joker 2 take place?
Here’s a look at the timeline of Joker: Folie à Deux and in what period its narrative unfolds.
When does Joker 2: Folie à Deux take place in the Elseworlds timeline?
Set in the Elseworlds timeline, the story of Joker 2: Folie à Deux unfurls specifically in the fictional city of Gotham during the year 1983.
Such a placement positions the film two years after the events of the first Joker movie, allowing for a continuation of the story within a distinct and alternate universe. The 2019 film intentionally diverged from the established DC Extended Universe by setting its narrative within a 1980s Gotham City inspired by New York City.
Todd Phillips confirmed this deliberate choice, explaining that he wanted to differentiate the film from Warner Bros.’ existing DC plans. By establishing a separate universe, the filmmaker aimed to avoid any potential conflicts or interference with the studio’s ongoing projects. (via CBR) In addition to the temporal setting, the film also delves deeper into the psychological state of Joaquin Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck, AKA The Joker.
Following Arthur’s infamous killing spree, he is admitted to Arkham State Hospital. This narrative choice allows for a more in-depth exploration of his deteriorating mental health and his association with Harleen “Lee” Quinzel, AKA Harley Quinn (played by Lady Gaga). Talking to Variety, Phillips said, “The goal of this movie is to make it feel like it was made by crazy people.”
Additionally, the director has announced that Joker: Folie à Deux will be his last installment in the Joker series, promising a definitive end to Arthur Fleck’s tragic journey. The film follows Arthur Fleck’s trial for his heinous crimes, delving deeper into his fractured psyche. Critics have likened its themes to those explored in Taxi Driver and The King of Comedy. This particularly includes Arthur’s psychological unraveling and his fixation on talk show host Murray Franklin.
