Last Updated on June 30, 2024 by Amanda Bacchi

The release of Birds of Prey has brought about a lot of buzz and excitement among fans of the DC universe. With Harley Quinn taking center stage in this all-female-led ensemble film, it’s no surprise that people are wondering if her infamous counterpart, the Joker, will make an appearance.

After his electrifying performance as the Clown Prince of Crime in 2019’s Joker, many fans were left hoping that Joaquin Phoenix would reprise his role for Birds of Prey. However, with the movie focusing solely on Harley Quinn and her girl gang taking on Gotham’s underworld without any male heroes or villains to save them, it seems unlikely that we’ll see the Joker making an appearance anytime soon. But is he really completely absent from the story? Let’s delve deeper into this question and explore whether or not the Joker actually appears in Birds of Prey.

The Plot Of Birds Of Prey

Birds of Prey is a thrilling action movie that follows Harley Quinn as she navigates her way through the aftermath of breaking up with the Joker. The film takes place in Gotham City and introduces several new characters, including Black Canary, Huntress, and Renee Montoya. Together, these women team up to protect young Cassandra Cain from an evil crime lord.

The plot of Birds of Prey is fast-paced and full of twists and turns. It’s refreshing to see a superhero movie focus on female characters who are complex and flawed but still powerful. Margot Robbie shines as Harley Quinn, bringing humor and heart to the character while also showing off some impressive fight scenes.

One thing that sets Birds of Prey apart from other superhero movies is its use of non-linear storytelling. The film jumps back and forth in time, giving viewers glimpses into each character’s past and motivations for their actions. This adds depth to the story and makes it feel more like a heist movie than your typical comic book adaptation.

Overall, Birds of Prey is a must-see for fans of the genre. With excellent performances, stunning visuals, and a unique storyline, this movie has something for everyone. Whether you’re rooting for Harley or one of the other badass ladies in this film, there’s no denying that Birds of Prey is a force to be reckoned with in the world of superhero cinema.

Harley Quinn’s Role In The Film

As we’ve established in the previous section, Birds of Prey tells the story of a group of female superheroes teaming up to take down an evil crime lord. However, one character that has been on everyone’s mind is Harley Quinn, played by Margot Robbie.

In this film, Harley Quinn takes center stage as she navigates life without her ex-boyfriend and notorious villain, the Joker. While the Joker does make appearances throughout flashbacks and mentions from other characters, he is not physically present in the movie.

This decision to exclude the Joker was a bold move on behalf of director Cathy Yan and writer Christina Hodson. It allowed for more focus on Harley Quinn’s individual journey and development as a character outside of her relationship with the Joker.

Overall, while some may have been disappointed at first to not see the infamous clown prince of crime alongside Harley Quinn in Birds of Prey, it ultimately proved to be a smart choice that elevated both the character and the film itself.

The Absence Of Male Heroes And Villains

As the credits rolled after watching Birds of Prey, I couldn’t help but feel something was missing. And that’s when it hit me – there were no male heroes or villains in the film.

This absence of men may seem like a small detail, but it has a significant impact on the movie’s overall tone and message. By taking away the traditional "male hero saves the day" narrative, Birds of Prey creates space for female characters to shine in their own right.

Here are four reasons why this lack of male representation works so well in Birds of Prey:

It allows for more nuanced storytelling: Without relying on tired gender tropes, Birds of Prey can explore complex themes like sisterhood, trauma, and redemption without falling into clichés.

It challenges societal norms: The fact that women can be just as badass (if not more) than their male counterparts is still a relatively new concept in mainstream media – especially superhero films.
It centers female voices: Too often, movies featuring primarily male casts relegate women to supporting roles or simply use them as objects to further the plot. In Birds of Prey, however, every character carries their weight and contributes meaningfully to the story.
It opens doors for future projects: If a big-budget action flick without any major male players can succeed at the box office (which it did), then perhaps studios will take note and green-light similar projects with diverse casts.

Overall, while some viewers might lament the lack of familiar faces like Batman or Joker popping up in Birds of Prey, I believe their absence ultimately makes way for an even stronger film-going experience.

Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker Performance

The characterization of Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker is spot-on; he brilliantly captures the villainous essence of the character. The cinematography of the movie is also incredible; it captures the unsettling atmosphere of Gotham City perfectly. Phoenix’s acting style is also unique and captivating; he manages to bring a certain humanity to the character. His performance is powerful and haunting, and really brings the character to life. His range of emotions displayed throughout the movie is remarkable, and he masterfully conveys the Joker’s inner turmoil. His portrayal is truly one of the best Joker performances to date.

Characterization

You can never talk about Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker without mentioning the character’s unique characterization. In Birds of Prey, the audience is left wondering if we’ll get a glimpse of this infamous villain again. Unfortunately, though there are hints and references to his existence, he doesn’t make an appearance in the film.

Phoenix delivered one of the most stunning performances as Joker in 2019’s standalone movie. His take on the character was fresh, deeply emotional, and raw. He portrayed Arthur Fleck as a man struggling with mental illness who slowly descends into madness after being constantly mistreated by society. The actor brought something entirely new to the table and made it impossible for anyone else to play this role in quite the same way.

What makes Phoenix’s portrayal so remarkable is how he humanizes Joker while still making him terrifyingly unpredictable. We see glimpses of vulnerability that allow us to empathize with him despite his ruthless acts of violence. It’s no wonder why people were calling for him to win all kinds of awards – he truly transformed himself both physically and emotionally for this role.

Overall, Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker remains one of the most iconic cinematic portrayals of all time because it defies expectations and pushes boundaries. While it would have been exciting to see him interact with Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn or other characters from Birds of Prey, its absence only highlights just how much impact his performance had on audiences worldwide.

Cinematography

Now let’s shift our focus to the technical side of Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker performance, particularly in terms of cinematography. The film’s director, Todd Phillips, worked closely with cinematographer Lawrence Sher to create a gritty and realistic portrayal of Gotham City that perfectly complements Phoenix’s raw interpretation of the character.

One standout aspect of the film’s visual style is its use of color. From the muted browns and grays of Arthur Fleck’s everyday life to the vibrant reds and greens during his transformation into Joker, each scene is carefully crafted to evoke certain emotions from the audience. The camera work also plays a crucial role in telling this story – long takes and close-ups help us feel like we’re right there with Arthur as he navigates his descent into madness.

Another notable choice was using real locations around New York City instead of relying on CGI or sound stages. This gave the movie an authentic feel that added to its overall impact. For example, scenes set in the subway were filmed in actual subway stations, which helped create a sense of claustrophobia and unease for both characters and viewers alike.

Acting Style

Now, let’s delve into the acting style of Joaquin Phoenix in his portrayal of Joker. Phoenix’s performance was praised for its intensity and commitment to capturing the character’s inner turmoil. He brought a physicality to the role that made every movement feel deliberate and purposeful, whether it be his awkward gait or sudden bursts of violence.

One aspect that stands out is Phoenix’s use of laughter as a tool for conveying emotion. Arthur Fleck has a condition that causes him to laugh uncontrollably at inappropriate times, which becomes a recurring motif throughout the film. Phoenix’s ability to switch between fits of maniacal laughter and moments of quiet vulnerability showcases his range as an actor.

Another notable choice by Phoenix was losing weight to embody the emaciated appearance of Arthur Fleck. This added another layer of authenticity to his performance and helped viewers understand just how damaged this character truly was.

Overall, Joaquin Phoenix delivered a tour de force performance that solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors. His commitment to fully inhabiting the character created a sense of unease and discomfort that stayed with audiences long after leaving the theater.

Speculation About The Joker’s Appearance

After Joaquin Phoenix’s unforgettable performance as the Joker, fans were left wondering if we would see the iconic villain in future DC films. With the release of Birds of Prey, some hoped that the Clown Prince of Crime might make an appearance.

However, it was soon confirmed that Jared Leto, who portrayed the Joker in Suicide Squad, would not be reprising his role for Birds of Prey. This left fans disappointed but also curious about how the film would handle such a notable absence.

Speculation swirled about whether or not another actor would step into the purple suit and green hair or if the Joker would simply be mentioned in passing. As it turns out, neither option came to fruition. The Joker is nowhere to be seen or heard from in Birds of Prey.

While this may come as a letdown to some viewers who were hoping for a glimpse at one of Batman’s greatest foes, it ultimately allows for other characters to shine and establish themselves within their own narratives. Instead of relying on fan-favorite villains like the Joker to carry a film, Birds of Prey proves that these female protagonists can hold their own without needing outside help.

Character	Description
Harley Quinn	A former psychiatrist turned criminal mastermind with colorful taste in clothing and weaponry
Black Canary	A skilled martial artist with a powerful sonic scream ability
Huntress	An assassin seeking revenge against those responsible for her family’s death

Overall, while some may miss seeing the Joker make an appearance in Birds of Prey, its exclusion ultimately allowed for other characters to take center stage and prove their worth as leading ladies in their own right.

Analysis Of Easter Eggs And References

Easter eggs in film are an interesting way for directors to add something extra for fans to find. They can be something as simple as a reference to another film, or as complex as an entire hidden scene. Comics are also full of Easter eggs, from subtle nods to other comic universes, to full-blown crossovers. And of course, Easter eggs can be references to other media – from books to TV shows, and even video games. It’s always fun to spot these little nods, as it adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the viewing experience. I’m always on the lookout for Easter eggs, and it’s exciting when I spot one!

Easter Eggs In Film

As the much-anticipated Birds of Prey hit theatres, fans couldn’t help but wonder if Joker would make an appearance. Although he doesn’t appear in the film physically, there are several Easter eggs that reference him throughout.

One of the most noticeable Easter eggs is seen during one of Harley Quinn’s flashbacks where we see her lying on a car with "Bruce" graffiti-ed across it. However, eagle-eyed viewers will notice that the ‘B’ has been crossed out and replaced with a ‘J’. This could refer to either Batman or Joker, leaving fans wondering whether this is just a nod to its predecessor Suicide Squad or something more significant.

Another subtle hint at Joker’s existence can be found when Ewan McGregor’s character Roman Sionis (Black Mask) mentions that Harley was once protected by someone who had tattoos all over his face. Fans immediately connected this description to none other than Jared Leto’s controversial portrayal of The Joker in Suicide Squad.

The final and perhaps most exciting Easter egg comes as an after-credits scene where we hear a familiar laugh followed by Harley saying "Oh shit". While it isn’t confirmed whose laugh this belongs to, many speculate that it could belong to Joaquin Phoenix’s Oscar-winning version of Joker from the 2019 standalone film.

In conclusion, while Joker may not have made a physical appearance in Birds of Prey, there were enough references scattered throughout the film for fans to keep their theories alive. These nods serve as perfect teasers for what might come next in DC’s cinematic universe.

Easter Eggs In Comics

Now that we’ve discussed the Easter eggs in Birds of Prey, let’s take a look at how they fit into the larger trend of Easter eggs and references in comic book adaptations. It’s no secret that fans love to scour films and TV shows for hidden nods to their favorite characters and storylines from the source material.

In recent years, comic book adaptations have become particularly adept at including Easter eggs as a way to reward dedicated fans while also building excitement for future installments. Marvel Studios is perhaps best known for this approach, with its post-credits scenes teasing upcoming movies and TV shows in the MCU.

DC Comics has followed suit, incorporating Easter eggs into many of its recent releases. For example, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice included references to several classic DC stories like The Dark Knight Returns and Death of Superman, while Aquaman featured nods to both the comics and previous entries in the DCEU.

These Easter eggs can serve multiple purposes – they can build hype for upcoming projects (as seen in Marvel’s post-credits scenes), deepen connections between different parts of a franchise or universe, or simply delight fans who recognize them. Regardless of their function, it’s clear that these hidden references are here to stay in comic book adaptations. Who knows what other secrets will be revealed on screen next?

Easter Egg References To Other Media

Now that we’ve explored Easter eggs in comic book adaptations, let’s take a closer look at how these hidden references extend beyond the source material. One popular trend among filmmakers and TV showrunners is to include Easter egg references to other media – whether it be pop culture, history, or even rival franchises.

For example, Deadpool 2 famously included nods to both the DC universe (via a cameo from Brad Pitt as Vanisher) and classic films like RoboCop and The Terminator. Meanwhile, the Netflix series Stranger Things has become known for its numerous ’80s movie references, with moments inspired by everything from E.T. to Aliens.

These types of Easter eggs can add an extra layer of fun for audiences who pick up on them. They also serve as a way for creators to pay tribute to their influences while still putting their own spin on things. However, there is always a risk of overloading a project with too many references or making them feel forced rather than organic.

Ultimately, Easter eggs and references are just one tool in a creator’s toolbox – they can enhance the viewing experience when used well but should never overshadow the story being told. As long as fans continue to enjoy finding these hidden gems in their favorite movies and shows, we can expect this trend to stick around for years to come.

Cameos And Surprise Appearances

Birds of Prey, the latest DC Comics movie to hit theaters, is packed with action, humor and a few unexpected surprises. One question on everyone’s mind was whether or not we’d see the Joker make an appearance in this film. While some fans were hoping for a glimpse of Jared Leto’s iteration of the Clown Prince of Crime, others were curious if Joaquin Phoenix would reprise his role from last year’s Joker.

Final Verdict: Is The Joker In Birds Of Prey?

As the highly anticipated Birds of Prey finally hit theaters, fans were left wondering if the infamous Joker would make an appearance. The answer is no. Like a missing puzzle piece, his presence could have completed the story, but it’s absence didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment.

The movie was a refreshing take on female empowerment with Margot Robbie reprising her role as Harley Quinn. She led a cast of fierce women who took control and proved that they could hold their own in Gotham City without any male assistance. This dynamic breathed new life into the superhero genre and made for an entertaining watch.

However, some may argue that without Joker’s influence, Harley wasn’t fully realized as a character. But this argument falls flat when you consider how well-rounded and developed she was throughout the film. The lack of Joker simply allowed for more exploration into her psyche and gave her character arc room to grow.

Overall, Birds of Prey stood strong without relying on established male characters to propel the plot forward. It was refreshing to see a group of powerful women taking charge and fighting against injustice in Gotham City.

Things we loved about Birds of Prey:
The action scenes were top-notch.
The soundtrack perfectly matched each scene.

The humor added levity to tense moments.
Things we wished were different:
Some supporting characters lacked development.

A clearer explanation of Huntress’ backstory would have been appreciated.
Black Mask needed more screen time to establish himself as a formidable villain.
Favorite quote: "I’m not gonna kill ya… I’m just gonna hurt ya really, really bad." – ‘Why? Because you’re my friend.’

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Budget For Birds Of Prey?

Birds of Prey is a highly anticipated film that has been stirring up a lot of buzz lately. One question on everyone’s mind is the budget for this action-packed flick, and let me tell you, it does not disappoint. With an estimated production cost of $84.5 million, Birds of Prey boasts some seriously impressive visuals and stunts that are sure to leave audiences in awe. The movie follows Harley Quinn as she teams up with a group of badass women to take down a notorious villain, and with such a hefty budget backing them up, they certainly deliver on all fronts. Overall, if you’re looking for an exciting and visually stunning film, Birds of Prey definitely delivers the goods.

How Long Did It Take To Film Birds Of Prey?

Like a bird soaring through the sky, Birds of Prey is a high-flying adventure that doesn’t disappoint. With vibrant colors and non-stop action, this film packs a punch in every scene. But it’s not just all style and no substance – the talented cast delivers strong performances throughout. Margot Robbie shines as Harley Quinn, bringing both humor and heart to her character’s journey. The supporting actresses, including Jurnee Smollett-Bell as Black Canary and Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Huntress, add depth to the story with their own unique personalities. Director Cathy Yan does an excellent job of balancing the fast-paced plot with moments of introspection for each character. It’s clear that a lot of care was taken during the filming process, which reportedly lasted around 3 months according to sources. All in all, Birds of Prey is an impressive addition to the DC universe that will leave audiences wanting more.

What Is The Rating For Birds Of Prey?

Birds of Prey has been given an R rating, which is not surprising considering the film’s violent and gritty nature. The movie features a strong female cast led by Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn, who delivers a captivating performance that truly sets her apart from previous iterations of the character. The action sequences are well choreographed and visually stunning, with director Cathy Yan bringing a unique style to the superhero genre. While it may not be for everyone due to its mature content, Birds of Prey is a refreshing addition to the DC Extended Universe and offers something different than what we’ve seen before.

Who Composed The Soundtrack For Birds Of Prey?

You might assume that the soundtrack for Birds of Prey would be just as chaotic and unpredictable as the film itself. And yet, with Daniel Pemberton at the helm, it’s a surprisingly cohesive mix of punk rock and electronic beats. The composer behind films like Steve Jobs and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse brings his unique style to the table once again, infusing each track with its own personality while still maintaining an overall sense of unity. From Jurnee Smollett-Bell’s soulful rendition of "It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World" to Margot Robbie’s hilariously tongue-in-cheek "Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend," this album is a perfect reflection of what makes Birds of Prey so much fun to watch.

How Does Birds Of Prey Fit Into The Larger Dc Extended Universe?

Birds of Prey is a thrilling addition to the DC Extended Universe, showcasing the badass female characters that have been sorely missing in previous films. With Margot Robbie reprising her role as Harley Quinn and strong performances from Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, and Rosie Perez, this film packs a punch both visually and emotionally. The soundtrack composed by Daniel Pemberton perfectly captures the energy of this wild ride. Birds of Prey seamlessly fits into the larger DC universe with references to other heroes like Batman and nods to past events in Suicide Squad. Overall, it’s a refreshing take on superhero cinema that leaves audiences wanting more.

Conclusion

As a film critic, I must say that Birds of Prey is an absolute gem in the DC Extended Universe. The movie’s budget was around $84 million and it took roughly 4 months to complete filming. It has been rated R for its language, violence, and some sexual content.

The soundtrack for this action-packed flick was composed by Daniel Pemberton who did a fantastic job setting the tone for each scene. Now, what about the Joker? While he is not physically present in the movie, Harley Quinn mentions him several times as she struggles with life post-breakup. This subtle nod adds depth to her character and shows how much she relies on their toxic relationship. Overall, Birds of Prey proves to be a thrilling ride that will keep you engaged from start to finish. So grab your popcorn and enjoy!