Jared Leto and David Ayer talked about "Suicide Squad" in a recent interview. Leto revealed that he met with real psychopaths for his role as the Joker, while Ayer assured the film is so much fun.
Leto told Entertainment Weekly that he wanted to take his portrayal of the Joker in "Suicide Squad" in a "different direction." He said that he researched other possible ways on how he can rival Heath Ledger and Jack Nicholson's portrayal of the Joker. The actor went to great lengths to develop his character, even as far as meeting real life psychopaths.
The actor said that he met with real psychopaths and talked to their psychiatrists, so he can better immerse himself in his "Suicide Squad" character. Leto added that he also met with criminals who have done heinous crimes. The 44-year-old actor and musician said in his interview that this was his way of building up the Joker.
In the same interview, Leto also talked about his physical transformation. He said that the Joker's final look, the silver teeth and the green hair, were all results of his collaboration with Ayer. Meanwhile, the Joker's tattoos were solely Ayer's idea.
Leto really placed himself in the Joker's shoes throughout the "Suicide Squad" filming. Even during cast introductions the actor pretended to be the Joker. Viola Davis (Amanda Waller) said in the video below that Leto got into character when he introduced himself to his co-stars. He gave them horrific gifts and he also sent his henchman to deliver a dead pig during rehearsal.
All of Leto's efforts to portray the Joker clearly impressed not just his co-stars but also Ayer. The "Suicide Squad" director told Comicbook that it was easy for him to film Joker's scenes, because Leto was very good with his character. He also praised the actor for all that he had to go through just to portray the Joker.
"Suicide Squad" does not open until Aug. 5, but viewers already got their glimpse at what would be another fun film from the trailer. Ayer assured the movie will be fun and funny at the same time. He said that the film has a lot of soul and that it teaches viewers about the importance of family.
Listen to Viola Davis talk about Jared Leto and watch the trailer for "Suicide Squad" below.