Do We Really Need Batman in the Joker Sequel?
The release of the The Batman has sparked debates among fans about the potential inclusion of Batman in future Joker sequels. One might wonder if another appearance of Batman in a Joker sequel would be redundant, especially with Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal set to inspire excitement. This article explores whether Batman's presence is necessary for a fresh take on the Joker's story.
Returning Batman vs. A Single Appearance
It seems that multiple versions of Batman might be too much for one film. With Robert Pattinson's Batman set to return, Christian Bale (lying about his appearance) and Ben Affleck (rumors of potential involvement), adding another Batman character would overwhelm the narrative. This is especially pertinent since we have already seen Bruce Wayne's character in the previous film. A cameo of a moodier, angrier Bruce Wayne might be the best way to go, if at all.
The Joker's next film could also include Barry Keoghan's version in The Batman, making his appearance a possibility. Alternatively, they might choose to make Mr. Freeze the main villain in the second movie, with the Joker appearing in the third to create a perfect triology.
Creating Distinctive Storylines Without Batman
While it's unlikely that a child Joker in the first film will suddenly become a grown-up, or that another character might take on the role of Batman, one could argue that any sequel would benefit from some lesser-known aspects of the Joker's backstory. This would likely involve adding a rival for the Joker, as Gotham PD and The Batman are already established figures.
One way to create a unique narrative would be to focus on a Joker origin story, separate from the Batman's main storyline. Alternatively, they could explore a different hero such as Robin or Batgirl against the Joker. This would add depth to the character and provide a fresh take on the Joker's rise to prominence without overcomplicating the plot with multiple Batman appearances.
Exploring More Controversial Rivals
Instead of having Batman face off against Robert Pattinson's Joker, the film could introduce a more controversial and exciting rival. For instance, if Joaquin Phoenix's Joker from The Dark Knight were to reappear, it would certainly offer a dynamite dynamic. Thus, the question boils down to how the filmmakers utilize Batman to enhance the story rather than having him take center stage.
In my opinion, a standalone Joker movie doesn't strictly need Batman unless it serves a specific purpose, such as providing background or foreshadowing the overall Joker saga. The best bet would be to keep Batman in the periphery, using him to add depth and context to the Joker's story without overshadowing the main character.
The potential for a Gotham pre-takeover origin story could offer a rich narrative filled with intrigue and suspense, making it a fitting vessel for Phoenix's portrayal. Whether it's a slight adjustment in time, an introduction of a new villain, or a nod to the past, the key is to find the right balance that honors the character without overcomplicating the plot.
Closing Thoughts
The addition of Batman in a future Joker sequel is debatable. While his presence could add excitement, it may also dilute the originality of the Joker's story. Focusing on a well-crafted narrative that explores pre-Gotham origins or other compelling characters could make the Joker's next outing a memorable one. Ultimately, the success of the sequel will depend on how the story is told, and whether it manages to capture the essence of the Joker without relying heavily on the Batman character.
Keywords: Joker sequel, Batman, pre-Gotham origins