The highly anticipated sequel to 2019’s “Joker” has hit theaters, but the reception is far from what fans expected. “Joker: Folie à Deux,” starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, has sparked controversy and confusion among viewers and critics alike.
Box Office Stumble and Critical Response
Early screenings of the film grossed only half of what the original “Joker” pulled in 2019. As of Friday, the movie earned $7 million in previews, indicating a potential $50 million opening weekend. However, this is significantly lower than the predecessor’s which is more than $90 million debuts.
The critical response has been harsh, with the film currently sitting at a dismal 33% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and 31% from audiences during the writing of the article. IndieWire called it “blockbuster filmmaking as a form of collective punishment.”
Tonal Shift and Musical Elements
One of the main points of contention is the film’s departure from the gritty tone of the original. The inclusion of musical elements and a romantic subplot featuring Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn has left many viewers confused and disappointed.
“We use music to make us whole. To balance the fractures within ourselves,” stated online.
Plot Twists and Narrative Choices
The film’s story combines a love story, a prison drama, and a courtroom battle. Director Todd Phillips took a risk by focusing on Arthur Fleck’s mental breakdown rather than his journey to becoming a villain.
The most shocking aspect of the film comes in its final moments. It’s revealed that Arthur Fleck, the character we’ve followed for two films, was never the true Joker. The movie ends with Arthur’s death by stabbing, implying that his killer is the actual Joker.
The twist has left many fans feeling both betrayed and confused. Critics have explained that the audience was not watching an origin story of the Joker, but rather the origin story of the human on whom the Joker is based.
Audience Reaction and Deeper Meanings
Despite the negative reception, some fans argue that the film requires multiple viewings to fully appreciate its depth. “After watching Joker #JokerFolieADeux I can say that this is exactly what Todd & the cast wanted. An outrage over the movie, because it completely destroys the fantasy that the first movie creates,” one fan wrote on social media.
Others suggest that the film is making a statement about society’s fascination with sensationalism and mental illness. “#JokerFolieADeux was made to make a statement: people love sensationalism and don’t really care about mental illness. That’s what this movie is about, and it’s a powerful message,” another fan defended.
Cultural Impact and Future Implications
The Joker character has a long history in popular culture, from comic books to various film adaptations. “Folie à Deux” adds a new layer to this legacy by introducing a new Joker, which could influence future portrayals of the character.
The film’s reception and its place in the current cinematic landscape of sequels and reboots raise questions about audience expectations and the evolution of superhero narratives.
Expert Opinions and Deeper Analysis
Film critics and psychologists could provide valuable insights into the film’s portrayal of mental illness and its potential impact on public perception. However, these expert opinions are notably absent from current discussions surrounding the film.
Conclusion
“Joker: Folie à Deux” has certainly made an impact, albeit not the one many expected. Its bold narrative choices and tonal shifts have created a divisive viewing experience. As audiences continue to process the film, its true legacy and impact on the superhero genre remain to be seen.
Whether you view it as a misunderstood masterpiece or a confusing misstep, one thing is clear: “Joker: Folie à Deux” has people talking, and that might be exactly what its creators intended.
The highly anticipated sequel to 2019’s “Joker” has hit theaters, but the reception is far from what fans expected. “Joker: Folie à Deux,” starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, has sparked controversy and confusion among viewers and critics alike.
Box Office Stumble and Critical Response
Early screenings of the film grossed only half of what the original “Joker” pulled in 2019. As of Friday, the movie earned $7 million in previews, indicating a potential $50 million opening weekend. However, this is significantly lower than the predecessor’s which is more than $90 million debuts.
The critical response has been harsh, with the film currently sitting at a dismal 33% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and 31% from audiences during the writing of the article. IndieWire called it “blockbuster filmmaking as a form of collective punishment.”
Tonal Shift and Musical Elements
One of the main points of contention is the film’s departure from the gritty tone of the original. The inclusion of musical elements and a romantic subplot featuring Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn has left many viewers confused and disappointed.
“We use music to make us whole. To balance the fractures within ourselves,” stated online.
Plot Twists and Narrative Choices
The film’s story combines a love story, a prison drama, and a courtroom battle. Director Todd Phillips took a risk by focusing on Arthur Fleck’s mental breakdown rather than his journey to becoming a villain.
The most shocking aspect of the film comes in its final moments. It’s revealed that Arthur Fleck, the character we’ve followed for two films, was never the true Joker. The movie ends with Arthur’s death by stabbing, implying that his killer is the actual Joker.
The twist has left many fans feeling both betrayed and confused. Critics have explained that the audience was not watching an origin story of the Joker, but rather the origin story of the human on whom the Joker is based.
Audience Reaction and Deeper Meanings
Despite the negative reception, some fans argue that the film requires multiple viewings to fully appreciate its depth. “After watching Joker #JokerFolieADeux I can say that this is exactly what Todd & the cast wanted. An outrage over the movie, because it completely destroys the fantasy that the first movie creates,” one fan wrote on social media.
Others suggest that the film is making a statement about society’s fascination with sensationalism and mental illness. “#JokerFolieADeux was made to make a statement: people love sensationalism and don’t really care about mental illness. That’s what this movie is about, and it’s a powerful message,” another fan defended.
Cultural Impact and Future Implications
The Joker character has a long history in popular culture, from comic books to various film adaptations. “Folie à Deux” adds a new layer to this legacy by introducing a new Joker, which could influence future portrayals of the character.
The film’s reception and its place in the current cinematic landscape of sequels and reboots raise questions about audience expectations and the evolution of superhero narratives.
Expert Opinions and Deeper Analysis
Film critics and psychologists could provide valuable insights into the film’s portrayal of mental illness and its potential impact on public perception. However, these expert opinions are notably absent from current discussions surrounding the film.
Conclusion
“Joker: Folie à Deux” has certainly made an impact, albeit not the one many expected. Its bold narrative choices and tonal shifts have created a divisive viewing experience. As audiences continue to process the film, its true legacy and impact on the superhero genre remain to be seen.
Whether you view it as a misunderstood masterpiece or a confusing misstep, one thing is clear: “Joker: Folie à Deux” has people talking, and that might be exactly what its creators intended.
