Joker: Folie à Deux Fails to Win Critics and Fans Alike

In theaters now, “Joker: Folie à Deux” has sparked considerable debate among critics and fans alike, with many expressing disappointment over the highly anticipated sequel. The blog will cover all the major talking points from the movie so spoiler alert!

The film follows Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) after his conviction for five murders, including one on live television. In prison, he encounters Lee Quinn (Lady Gaga), who encourages him to embrace his Joker persona. However, despite the five-year wait since the original, many viewers feel the sequel fails to capture the essence of its predecessor.

Reasons for their discontent?

1. Unnecessary Sequel: Many argue that “Joker” was meant to be a standalone film, and critics say the sequel lacks a compelling narrative, appearing as a forced extension due to the original’s financial success.
2. Questionable Redemption Arc: Critics feel Arthur’s sudden shift towards seeking redemption is unconvincing, given his horrific actions in the first film.
3. Loss of Ambiguity: The sequel clarifies events from the first film, stripping away the intriguing ambiguity that left audiences questioning the reality of Arthur’s experiences.
4. Lack of Meaningful Themes: Many expected the sequel to offer social commentary akin to the original, but instead, it delivers a muddled message, leading to a less engaging experience.
5. Inconsistent Tone: The film struggles with tone, alternating between dark themes and musical numbers that disrupt the narrative flow, leaving audiences confused.
6. Focus on Arthur Over Joker: Unlike the original, “Folie à Deux” prioritizes Arthur’s character, leaving fans craving more of the Joker’s iconic persona, which appears briefly.
7. Marginalization of Harley Quinn: Despite Lady Gaga’s strong performance, Harley’s character becomes sidelined as the story progresses, losing her significance.
8. Underwhelming Conclusion: Critics slam the ending for feeling meaningless, as Arthur ends up back where he started, which frustrates viewers over the film’s lack of progression.
9. Plot Holes and Unresolved Threads: Several introduced plot points go nowhere, leaving viewers feeling that the film omitted crucial story elements.
10. Musical Elements Fall Flat: While the concept of a musical was intriguing, critics argue that the songs do not enhance the plot and often halt the story’s momentum.

With a current Rotten Tomatoes score of 33%, significantly lower than the original’s rating, “Joker: Folie à Deux” has left many questioning its place in the cinematic landscape. As discussions continue, fans grapple with their expectations versus the film’s execution. Many wonder, “Who was this movie made for?”