Is a Joker in the DCEU?
The Joker has appeared in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), a collection of films produced by Warner Bros. that form a shared universe between DC Comics characters. The character has been portrayed by various actors, most notably by Jared Leto in Suicide Squad (2016) and Justice League (2017 and 2021).
As of my last update in August 2023, discussions about future projects involving the Joker in various DC films have been ongoing. However, specific details about his appearances in upcoming DCEU films have not been officially confirmed. In this article, we will explore the history and interactions of the Joker within the DCEU and related DC films.
Is the Joker Part of the DCEU?
Technically, the answer is yes, but with some caveats. While the character of Joker is owned by DC Comics, his involvement in the DCEU is questioned due to his placement in alternative timelines or standalone stories. This means that while the character exists within the broader DC universe, he does not necessarily fit into the continuous storyline of the DCEU.
The Joker in Suicide Squad
The first appearance of the Joker in the DCEU can be traced back to Suicide Squad (2016), where he is portrayed by actor Jared Leto. In this film, the Joker is introduced as a member of the Suicide Squad, a group tasked with dangerous missions for the government. This portrayal is a standalone story that does not directly connect to the overall DCEU.
The Joker in Justice League
The Joker's involvement in the DCEU is further expanded in the 2017 film Justice League. Although limited to animated form and a few flashback scenes, his presence contributes to the overall narrative of the film. These scenes provide more context on his history and interactions with the other main characters, including Bruce Wayne and Thomas Wayne.
The Joker in Snyder's Justice League
The most significant and developed appearance of the Joker in the DCEU comes from Snyder's Justice League (2021). In this film, the Joker is given a more substantial screen time, where he is portrayed in a more grounded, darker version of himself. His complex character arc and his actions at the end of the film set up potential future storylines, particularly considering that his character could be connected to the The Batman movie, set for release in 2022.
Conclusion
The DC movies, including Joker, do feature the Joker as a character, but his role within the DCEU is nuanced. While he exists within the broader DC universe due to his shared origin, the Joker in the DCEU is often portrayed in standalone stories or alternative timelines. Future connections are speculative, but the Joker remains a significant figure in the DC universe.