Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga star and sing in the jukebox musical Joker: Folie à Deux, the sequel to the controversial 2019 Academy Award-winning movie. The Onion sat down with the actors to discuss collaboration, chemistry, and craft.
The Onion: How would you describe your relationship on set?
Gaga: We had this really playful chemistry on set where I would say my lines and then Joaquin would say his but kind of weirdly.
Phoenix: I’ve never seen this woman before in my life.
The Onion: Was it fun to do a musical?
Phoenix: Every film I’ve ever done has been a musical, and every line I’ve ever said has been singing.
Gaga: No.
The Onion: What was your favorite part about making this film?
Phoenix and Gaga, simultaneously: Receiving financial compensation for our labor.
The Onion: In what ways do the songs drive the plot forward?
Gaga: Fortunately, the writers decided not to include a plot.
The Onion: Do you have any fun behind-the-scenes stories to share?
Phoenix: That is a private matter between me and the audience of The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon.
The Onion: Fans were nervous you two might lack onscreen chemistry. How did you generate such an electric dynamic?
Gaga: I have great natural chemistry with weird-looking white people.
The Onion: What’s next for the Joker?
Phoenix: Who? Oh, the clown guy. I think he’s dead.
