When it was clear that Kevin Feige knew what he was doing with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Disney wanted him more involved, so they did just that, and look what happened. Now, Warner Bros. is seeking a new leader for DC Films, reportedly, and Phillips may be the man to at least consult on such projects.
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According to The Hollywood Reporter, Warner Bros. wants Phillips to be more involved with DC film projects beyond what Phillips may potentially do with the Joker films. Although Phillips has a good relationship with Warner Bros., the problem is that his lack of familiarity with the rest of the DC universe would potentially hinder his input. However, though his expertise in that department is limited, Puck News reported that Phillips is “getting close” on a sequel to Joker, which means that Phillips will have some involvement with the franchise until further notice. THR said that Warner Bros. Discovery’s David Zaslav will have his hands in full in that regard because “sorting out DC remains a major challenge for Zaslav.” According to THR Source, Zaslav has asked Phillips to do more in the DC universe, “potentially acting as an advisor though he will not serve in an executive capacity.”
The conundrum is that, before Joker, Phillips was primarily a comedic filmmaker who made the film about arguably the most iconic fictional villain of all time because it was a passion project as well as a tribute to Martin Scorsese movies like Taxi Driver and King of Comedy. There’s a reason why Robert De Niro was in a supporting role in Joker. While Joker’s popularity as a character is why fans tuned in to see the movie, Phillips made it because he had a story to tell that just so happened to fit a possible backstory for the Joker.
It makes sense why Warner Bros. would want Phillips around as an advisor for these DC projects. Joker was commonly recognized as one of the best films of 2019, and it took home some Academy Awards and nominations too. It’s also been hailed as one of the greatest comic book movies of all time since its release. Clearly, DC wants Phillips’ input on their properties going forward in the hopes of future installments getting similar recognition.
The issue is, even though it’s technically a comic book movie, Joker definitely doesn’t feel like one. That played a part in why it resonated so much with fans and critics alike. Joker was more of a psychological thriller film that just happened to take place in a comic book world with Gotham City characters. Phillips has certainly proven he knows his stuff when capturing the tragedy of a mentally ill man losing his grip on his sanity, but that doesn’t necessarily equate to knowing how to make other comic book movies.
Joker can currently be watched on HBO Max
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Source: The Hollywood Reporter, Puck News
