It has been five years since Todd Phillips’ Joker hit the screens, offering a dark and gritty take on the infamous comic book villain. The film delved into contemporary issues like political divides, wealth inequality, and social isolation, resonating even more deeply in the wake of the covid pandemic. There has been ongoing debate about whether the film glorified the Joker’s violent actions or served as a cautionary tale about society’s neglect of marginalized individuals. Joker: Folie à Deux, unfortunately, fails to provide a clear perspective and falls short as a movie overall.
After the events of the first film where Arthur Fleck (played by Joaquin Phoenix) shoots a talk show host live on national television and becomes the Joker, he spends five years in Arkham Asylum awaiting trial. The film introduces Harley Quinn (played by Lady Gaga) as a fellow inmate who befriends Arthur. The question of whether Joker: Folie à Deux can be considered a musical arises, with conflicting opinions from the director and cast. While the characters do sing their emotions, the musical numbers lack the impact and grandeur typically associated with the genre.
There are a few standout moments in the film, such as a dream sequence where Joker and Harley perform on a television show and a rooftop dance scene reminiscent of classic Hollywood musicals. Joaquin Phoenix’s performance as Arthur Fleck is a highlight, showcasing his descent into madness and desperation. Lady Gaga brings a quiet intensity to the role of Harley Quinn, but her character lacks the depth and complexity seen in other iterations.
The film struggles to explore interesting themes like the duality of Arthur Fleck and the Joker persona, choosing instead to focus on a courtroom drama that adds little to the overall narrative. Joker: Folie à Deux fails to build on the momentum of the first film, lacking character development and plot progression. The film’s direction feels uninspired, missing the mark on delivering a compelling story.
In conclusion, Joker: Folie à Deux falls short of its potential, squandering a promising concept and talented cast on a lackluster and dreary vision. While musicals may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the film manages to make the genre uninteresting and fails to leave a lasting impact on the audience. Joker: Folie à Deux is a disappointing follow-up that fails to live up to the legacy of its predecessor.
