That’s right. Dukes, who normally leans toward the horror genre on projects, admittedly does not normally do fan films he is breaking his own rule just this once to show some much needed Harley love that we haven’t seen nearly enough on film. When asked about the reasoning behind undertaking such a project, Dukes stated:
“It’s of the utmost importance to me that this film respects the origins of Harley, as I’m a huge fan, but I’m also not afraid to be bold. To bring to life our own unique renditions of Harley and the Joker, and place them within a story that I feel will stand out from the pack of other fan films out there. This will be my first and I imagine my last fan film, so if I’m going to do it I’m going to do it right and really go for something special. Although the Joker plays a big part in the plot of this film, this is ultimately Harley’s story. This is her time to shine.”
Sweet Madness is described as a “quirky, fun, at times dark” short fan film about Harley Quinn’s spiral to insanity and how she finds her “inner strength and regains her independence” through the power that comes from it. You know a crazy lady is nothing to mess with. So who will be the stars of the show? The crazy lady, herself, will be played by Madeleine Wade (Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde) opposite Micah Fitzgerald. Producer and stunt veteran Pete Turner joining the fun donning multiple hats as he is set to play the negotiator (The Terminator, Captain America: The First Avenger).
Following the announcement that Wade will be cast as Harley Quinn, Dukes was asked for a bit of incite into the reason behind that decision, or the method to his madness.
“Madeleine’s a perfect fit for our Harley Quinn. She’s energetic, fresh, witty, likable and has just a pinch of spice to her. Just like Harley:) She has an energetic presence, a certain effervescence and a fun off-the-cuff unpredictability that really compliments the character she’s taking on. When Madeleine is performing, Harley feels ALIVE, and that’s a great thing to behold as a director.”
Rehearsal started this weekend, and stunt choreography rehearsal is set for Monday. Actual shoot dates are scheduled to begin Saturday and span over a two to three day period just outside of Burbank, California. He will be joined by Director of Photography Jon Schweigart. Stay tuned for more information regarding release dates, trailers, etc.
