While superhero movies and cinematic universes are everywhere, the DC world is a unique beast. Despite major blockbusters approaching with Aquaman and Shazam!, the overall plan for the cinematic universe is largely a mystery to the public. DC has big plans for Batman villain The Joker, including Todd Phillips' upcoming origin story. A project separate from the greater DCEU, the film has recently begun assembling a cast, led by Joaquin Phoenix as the Clown Prince of Crime. While most of the project is a mystery, a new report indicates that Phillips is casting the Joker's mother, and has Oscar winner Frances McDormand in mind. There's just one hitch: it looks like she passed on the project.
This new report comes to us from a reporter from The Wrap, who claims that not only is the Joker's mother a character in the upcoming movie - but Frances McDormand decided not to join the cast. While plenty of actors are dying to get involved in a superhero project, the Three Billboards actress unfortunately decided against it.
Frances McDormand may have reportedly passed on a role in the Joker origin movie, but this report indicates that director Todd Phillips may be looking for big names to play the role. McDormand is one of the most celebrated actresses of the past year, so one has to wonder what other stars Phillips will approach to play Mr. J's darling mommy.
This new report, while unconfirmed by the studio, is sure to get the attention of hardcore DC fans out there. Feelings surrounding Todd Phillips' Joker movie have been mixed. While Joaquin Phoenix seems like a great actor to play the beloved villain, the idea of exploring and explaining Joker's intentions goes against the grain. Part of what made The Joker terrifying in most comics and certainly The Dark Knight was that he had no rhyme or reason to his madness. He was an agent of anarchy, and there was no getting into his head or explaining his terrifying actions. An origin story gives the character a heart, which may result in Joker being far less scary than normal.
Todd Phillip's Joker movie isn't the only project being developed about the Clown Prince of Crime. Among DC's myriad announced movies, there's going to be a solo movie starring Jared Leto's version of the character, which debuted in David Ayer's less than stellar Suicide Squad. There were also talks of Joker/Harley movie being made, and there's always the possibility that Mr. J will have a role in Suicide Squad 2. There's a lot up in the air over at DC, and Batman's ultimate nemesis seems to be at the center of it.
The next installment in the DCEU will be James Wan's Aquaman on December 21st, 2018. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
