In a decision that has sparked disappointment among many fans and critics, Joker: Folie à Deux director Todd Phillips chose to cut a same-sex kiss scene featuring Lady Gaga. The highly anticipated movie has garnered mixed reviews, with this omitted moment drawing particular attention from the LGBTQ community. Gaga, who plays Harleen “Lee” Quinzel, initially shared an intimate kiss with another woman on the courthouse steps, shortly after being released from Arkham Asylum. However, this scene never made it to the final cut.
Phillips explained his decision to remove the kiss, stating that “it just kind of got in the way of the moment,” expressing a desire to emphasize “music and vibe” over dialogue. According to the director, the original version included dialogue that needed context, leading him to conclude that the scene was not suitable. However, critics argue that removing this intimate gesture between two women was a missed opportunity to make a meaningful statement in a major film.
For a film that explores themes of rebellion and societal constraints, the erasure of a queer-coded moment feels like a step back for LGBTQ representation in mainstream cinema. As Lady Gaga’s character navigates the chaos of the film’s world, the kiss could have added a layer of depth and authenticity to her role, emphasizing the fluidity and complexity of her character’s experiences. Instead, the decision to cut it leaves some questioning whether the film shied away from embracing its potential to challenge norms.
The omission has resonated within the LGBTQ community, who often see representation cut or limited to background characters. While Joker: Folie à Deux may have intended to create a gritty, unconventional experience, the removal of a same-sex kiss feels like a missed chance to advance the portrayal of queer characters, especially in blockbuster films.