The anthem for the Joker film's iconic dancing scene has struck up some controversy over concerns about who will receive the money for the song's usage.
As the Joker confidently dances, the film plays a song to match Joker's mood: "Rock n’ Roll Part 2" by Gary Glitter. This realization has sparked some controversy, considering the former British rock star was convicted for pedophilia. Many were concerned he would receive royalties for the song's inclusion in Joker, despite the fact he is currently serving a 16-year sentence for his crimes.
However, the L.A. Times reports that fans can pay for their ticket to Joker guilt-free. According to a spokesperson for the U.K. company Snapper Music, Glitter will not receive the royalties for the song's use in the film, since they hold the legal rights to Glitter's recordings. Snapper released a statement, clarifying, "Gary Glitter does not get paid. We’ve had no contact with him.”
The U.S. rights holder Universal Media Publishing Group also released a statement: "Gary Glitter’s publishing interest in the copyright of his songs is owned by UMPG and other parties, therefore UMPG does not pay him any royalties or other considerations."
As such, one thing is clear about Joker's inclusion of "Rock n’ Roll Part 2": Glitter will not be paid for it. The song is also notorious in American sports stadiums, as well as in films and television series such as Meet the Fockers and South Park.
Despite the controversies, Joker continues to be a success at the box office, earning $500 million worldwide in its second week.
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker stars Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais and Shea Whigham. The film is in theaters now.
via ScreenRant