RTE star Claire Byrne left Brendan Gleeson speechless on air as she made a bold admission about the upcoming Joker sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux. The Dublin native stars in the film, which is set for release on 4 October - exactly five years after the first film. The title of the film is a French reference to when two intimately related people share elements of the same mental illness, such as delusions.

Brendan spoke to Claire about the project on her RTE Radio 1 show this afternoon. The actor said: "I'm really excited to be a part of it. I wouldn't say I'm exactly the star of the show. But I was so pleased to get the call to to be apart of that set up."

"The first film completely blew me away. There are very few performances that affected me to the same extent as Joaquin's in the first film. I remember not being able to speak for about 15 minutes afterwards."

Claire asked: "Really?"

Brendan replied: "Yeah, have you seen it?"

The Laois native admitted she hadn't watched the first movie and even revealed she finds the new movie featuring Brendan "creepy."

She explained: "I haven't seen it and I watched the trailer last night for the new movie because I knew we were having our chat today. And it looks very dark. It looks creepy."

Brendan burst out laughing on air and said: "Sorry."

Claire then described Brendan's movie, The Banshees of Inisherin, which is a dark comedy, as "great, nice, sunlit vistas."

Brendan was completely flabbergasted at her description and said: "I lost all my fingers, what are you talking about nice sunlit?"

Claire attempted to redeem herself and said: "It didn't frighten me but The Joker... I don't know. I'll watch it because you're in it of course."

Brendan was lost for words as he replied: "Honestly... no, well yeah, I don't know if that's a great idea."

A Bold Admission

This unexpected admission from Claire Byrne left Brendan Gleeson completely flustered, highlighting the stark contrast in their perceptions of the Joker franchise. The exchange between the two on-air personalities reveals a fascinating dynamic between a seasoned actor and a well-known presenter. Brendan's response to Claire's description of The Banshees of Inisherin as "nice, sunlit vistas" is a testament to his dedication to portraying complex and often dark characters.

The radio interview provides a glimpse into the distinct perspectives viewers can have on films, particularly those of a darker nature. Claire's candid admission reveals a refreshing perspective that challenges the traditional notion of film reception, while Brendan's amusement highlights the unexpected humor that can arise from these contrasting viewpoints.

'Joker: Folie à Deux' - A Darker Chapter?

The sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux, promises a darker and more intense narrative. The title itself, a French term referring to shared mental illness between two individuals, sets the stage for a psychological thriller. The involvement of actors like Brendan Gleeson and Lady Gaga, known for their ability to portray complex characters, adds another layer of intrigue to the project.

The 'Joker' Legacy

The first film, directed by Todd Phillips, shocked audiences with its exploration of mental illness and its impact on the protagonist. Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of Arthur Fleck, the Joker's alter ego, was lauded for its intensity and emotional depth. The film sparked debate about the portrayal of mental illness in media, with some critics praising its honesty and others expressing concerns about its potential to romanticize mental instability.

Despite the controversies, Joker achieved critical and commercial success, becoming a cultural phenomenon. The film's success paved the way for a sequel, which is expected to delve deeper into the psychological complexities of the Joker and the world he inhabits.

A Shared Journey

The interview between Claire Byrne and Brendan Gleeson provides a unique insight into the anticipation surrounding Joker: Folie à Deux. Brendan's enthusiasm for the project is palpable, while Claire's honest assessment, despite her lack of familiarity with the first film, adds a fresh perspective. As the release date approaches, the film is set to spark further conversations about mental health, cinematic storytelling, and the ever-evolving relationship between entertainment and reality.

The interview also highlights the importance of engaging with content from multiple perspectives. The diverse opinions of Claire and Brendan showcase how even the most anticipated films can be interpreted in different ways, ultimately enriching the viewing experience.

The anticipation surrounding Joker: Folie à Deux is mounting, with fans eager to see how the sequel expands upon the legacy of its predecessor. Claire Byrne's candid admission and Brendan Gleeson's spirited reaction serve as a reminder that the film's impact will undoubtedly be felt long after its release.