'Joker 2' Director Defends the Movie's Most Controversial Change to DC Canon
Briefly

Phillips acknowledged, "The high voice, that accent, the gum-chewing and all that sort of sassy stuff that's in the comics, we stripped that away. We wanted her to fit into this world of Gotham that we created from the first movie." This statement reflects both an homage to the source material and a deliberate departure to create a grounded character within its gritty narrative.
However, while early reactions raised concerns about straying too far from the source material with Phoenix's portrayal, Phillips found success in reimagining the Joker. His interpretation, paired with Lady Gaga's dynamic portrayal of Harleen, is sure to stir discussions among fans.
With Harleen Quinzel transformed into a fellow patient rather than a psychologist, Phillips emphasizes a significant shift: "She's not called Harley," implying a more original creation rather than adhering strictly to established narratives.
Notably, the contemporary takes on Harley Quinn, including Margot Robbie's portrayal, have varied widely. Each adaptation challenged how much change from traditional lore is acceptable while exploring deeper themes of empowerment and identity.
Read at Inverse
[
|
]