Todd Phillips' "Joker 2" is set to surprise audiences with a bold departure from its predecessor

 Barbera highlighted significant differences from the first installment, particularly in its handling of violence and overall tone. He described the sequel as a "dystopian musical, or a musical of sorts," and labeled it as one of the most daring and creative recent works in American cinema.

Barbera shared his astonishment after watching the film in Los Angeles with a small group, including writer Scott Silver. Their collective reaction by the end of the screening left them speechless. He emphasized that "Joker 2" delves deeper into darkness and complexity compared to its predecessor, solidifying Todd Phillips' reputation as a highly innovative director.

Todd Phillips, known primarily for comedic hits like "Due Date," "Old School," and the "Hangover" trilogy, has surprised many with his transition to more serious and artistic filmmaking. Barbera's praise for Phillips, especially considering his earlier works, underscores the director’s evolving talent and versatility. Barbera admitted to initially having doubts about Phillips, which were dispelled by the success of "Joker."

In addition to discussing "Joker 2," Barbera also commended Luca Guadagnino’s film "Queer," singling out Daniel Craig's performance as the pinnacle of his career. This aligns with earlier reports lauding Craig's portrayal in the film. Barbera announced that both "Queer" and "Joker 2," alongside Pedro Almodóvar’s latest project, will feature in the second week of the Venice Film Festival, indicating their exclusion from the Telluride Film Festival lineup.

These revelations have generated considerable anticipation among film enthusiasts eager to witness how "Joker 2" diverges from its predecessor and introduces new dimensions to the character and narrative. With its audacious musical elements and intensified darkness, the film promises to deliver a distinctive and daring addition to contemporary cinema.