Chapter 782: The Joker's Origin!

In dissecting "The Dark Knight Rises" as a standalone entity, it undeniably emerges as a commercial success, scoring above 80 points. Yet, comparison lurks ominously, particularly with its predecessor, "The Dark Knight."

Variety's column makes a clear distinction: "While both films diverge distinctly, the crux lies in their characters. Batman remains Batman, but Bane lacks the enigmatic allure of the Joker. Reflecting on this new installment, one can't help but acknowledge the Joker's transcendent impact."

The Hollywood Reporter, not mincing words, asserts, "No disrespect to Vin Diesel, whose portrayal of Bane is commendable. However, Bane pales against the indelible impression left by Martin's Joker."

With Vin Diesel's portrayal sidelined, media critiques veer toward tepidness, retaining a semblance of empathy. However, within the realm of Batman enthusiasts, sentiments diverge.

Fans, often selectively forgetful, mourn and vocalize their grievances. One sentiment resonates widely: "Martin's Joker incited nationwide chaos, inspiring emulation and bedlam on a scale unmatched by Bane. Can Bane evoke such societal upheaval?"

"In any future Batman rendition, Martin's Joker looms as an inescapable benchmark for villains."

"Post-Martin, the Joker remains an indomitable force."

"Past accolades for Martin's Joker now seem inadequate upon reflection. Martin birthed an icon."

Such sentiments percolate online, fueling a surge in Joker impersonators haunting streets and theaters nationwide.

Instances of clown-related crimes, symbolic of societal disillusionment, surge unabated.

Since the 2008 economic downturn, America's economic malaise deepens, exacerbating class disparities. As the middle and lower classes struggle, fantasies of assuming the Joker's mantle proliferate.

The Aurora shooting, coupled with the portrayal of Bane and the overarching North American milieu, cement Martin's Joker as a digital deity.

The shooting incident, in particular, sanctifies the Joker to quasi-religious reverence.

In a society like America, proscribing the Joker is inconceivable.

To do so would detonate a seismic upheaval within Warner and Hollywood at large.

Entering Warner Studios, Martin made his way to the "Interstellar" studio, where he was met with a brief wait in the reception room. Nolan, preoccupied with urgent matters, would arrive later.

Passing the time, Martin idly scrolled through Twitter. Amidst the myriad tweets, a cluster of accounts affiliated with "Fast and Furious" caught his eye, notably Paul Walker's.

Clicking on Walker's profile, Martin encountered a poignant tweet commemorating Vin Diesel. The accompanying image captured a moment of camaraderie between the two, adorned with the caption: "Another angel beside God."

The juxtaposition struck Martin deeply, recalling the frequent instances in his previous life where Vin Diesel had memorialized Paul Walker. It seemed a cycle of remembrance between the two would persist.

Prompted by curiosity, Martin followed Walker's account, noting the presence of other leading actors such as Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Gal Gadot, and Jason Statham.

As Nolan returned, he greeted Martin with a warm smile, apologizing for the delay. Martin pocketed his phone, indicating he had just arrived.

Inquiring about Bruce's recovery from injury, Nolan segued into the reason for Martin's visit—rumors of Warner Bros. entrusting him with the DC superhero movie franchise.

Confirming the discussion with Kevin Tsujihara and DC Chairman Hamada, Nolan disclosed his refusal, hinting at "The Dark Knight Rises" potentially marking his swan song in the superhero genre, despite its imperfections.

Lightening the mood, he quipped about the unforeseen consequence of the Joker's deification fueling criticisms of their Batman narrative.

Martin chuckled, attributing the Joker's resonance to Nolan's adept storytelling, imbuing the character with depth and menace.

Nolan accepted the praise graciously, acknowledging Martin's contribution in giving the Joker a soul.

Martin, playfully querying whether their exchange was merely commercial flattery, received a sincere response from Nolan, who deemed it a meeting of like minds.

Their shared laughter dissolved the tension, returning focus to Nolan's earlier point, his recommendation of Zack Snyder to Warner, citing his directorial prowess demonstrated in "300" and "Watchmen."

Martin, familiar with Zack Snyder's work, inquired, "Are there any new plans brewing at DC?"

Nolan, perusing his thoughts, revealed, "We're shelving Green Lantern for now and contemplating a fresh take on Superman."

Observing Martin's keen interest in the DC series, Nolan speculated, "Do you have any thoughts on expanding the DC superhero universe?"

Martin wasted no time, asserting, "The Joker's popularity is unparalleled. As long as DC movies continue, his allure will endure. We could explore an independent Joker film."

Nolan grasped Martin's intent. A standalone Joker movie would inevitably set a benchmark against which future DC villains would be judged.

"The Joker possesses the potential for a standalone venture," Nolan admitted cautiously. "The challenge lies in portraying a supervillain."

He chuckled, "But in today's climate, villains aren't exactly a hindrance."

Martin concurred, "Audiences are drawn to the Joker's charisma, regardless of his alignment. However, a compelling plot and nuanced character development are imperative to meet audience expectations."

Impressed, Nolan remarked, "You've given this considerable thought."

Martin nodded affirmatively, "In 'The Dark Knight,' the Joker's backstory and motivations remain enigmatic. Exploring his evolution could captivate audiences, irrespective of comic canon."

Contemplating collaboration, Nolan proposed, "Shall we champion this project together?"

Martin, attuned to public sentiment, recognized the importance of Nolan's involvement. "This Joker incarnation owes its existence to your film," he acknowledged. "Your input is indispensable."

Nolan grinned, "Let's rally Warner and DC behind this endeavor. You're well-acquainted with Daniel, so Warner Pictures is in your court. I'll engage with the DC Films team, ensuring a unified approach."

With time pressing, Martin concluded, "Chris, I won't take up any more of your time. I'll head straight to Daniel's office after I leave."

Nolan disclosed his forthcoming meeting with Hamada and Zack Snyder, pledging to advocate for the project.

Parting ways, Martin departed for the Warner Building, arranging a rendezvous with Daniel. Guided by Daniel's secretary, Martin was ushered into his friend's office.

Noting Martin's infrequent visits, Daniel extended a handshake, remarking, "Warner Pictures is always open to collaborations with old friends."

Martin seized the moment, "I've come seeking assistance from an old friend."

Daniel, ever the pragmatist, inquired, "Any film projects on the horizon for us to collaborate on?"

"Have you been keeping tabs on the recent buzz surrounding the Joker?" Martin dove straight into the heart of the matter. His visit wasn't about pleasantries; it revolved around the Joker's role.

The deified Joker was none other than his portrayal, not the comic book character. If Warner and DC contemplated a Joker movie, they couldn't sidestep him and Nolan.

Daniel, a seasoned filmmaker, grasped Martin's implication instantly. "Are you suggesting we push forward with a Joker film?"

Martin affirmed, "Director Nolan and I aim to spearhead a personalized take on the Joker."

Daniel anticipated this. Since the premiere shooting incident where three individuals donned Joker attire, the Joker's stature had skyrocketed among fans, verging on quasi-deity status.

However, he harbored reservations. "Martin, while the Joker enjoys immense popularity, it's also been excessively praised."

Daniel cited recent examples, noting, "The Dark Knight Rises faced harsh criticism, partly due to heightened expectations following The Dark Knight."

Martin, poised with a response, reiterated his stance, "We won't aim for another summit. Instead, we'll delve into the Joker's origins, focusing on his transformation."

Daniel pondered, "A prequel to The Dark Knight?"

Martin nodded, "Precisely. A backstory chronicling the Joker's evolution. This way, we start anew, building upon the current Joker phenomenon."

Daniel chuckled, "Brilliant!"

Eager to make strides, he proposed, "Martin, let's jointly champion this project with you, Director Nolan, and Warner Pictures. What do you say?"

Martin, lacking copyright ownership, readily agreed, "No objections."

Daniel, containing his excitement, asserted, "I'll have our team draft promotional materials immediately. However, DC's approval is essential given the Joker's affiliation."

"I'll leave the DC discussions to you and Chris," Martin consented.

Daniel nodded, "Expect good news soon."

With his objective achieved, Martin bid farewell to Warner Pictures, leaving the script and directorial decisions pending DC Films and Warner Pictures' approval.