The DCEU is constantly in flux, but it looks like Warner Bros. and DC have plans to break away from the cinematic universe with a new project that’s set to focus on The Joker. Rumors of the project first surfaced months ago, and it looks like talks are heating up.
Variety is reporting that Joaquin Phoenix is the top choice to play the Crown Prince of Crime in Todd Phillips’ standalone Joker film. Phillips has reportedly made it clear that Phoenix is his choice for the role, and Phoenix has apparently agreed to take the role.
However, the report notes that at this point in time negotiations with Warner Bros. are not underway, and the studio had no comment.
Phillips is set to co-write and direct the film, and he it’s being said that he had meetings with Phoenix before the new year.
People close to the situation have stressed that Jared Leto’s Joker is still very much a part of the DCEU, and this will be an entirely different iteration of the character.
The film is meant to show how The Joker became The Joker, and it’s meant to be a gritty crime drama set in the 80s.
When news of the project first surfaced online, it was rumored that Leonardo DiCaprio was being eyed for the role, but apparently that didn’t pan out.
