When Joker hit theatres in 2019, it was nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. Todd Phillips and Joaquin Phoenix managed to create a film that not only defied expectations but redefined how comic book villains could be portrayed on the big screen. The gritty realism, intense character study, and Phoenix’s Oscar-winning performance set a high bar for any potential sequel. Fast forward to 2024, and Joker: Folie à Deux has arrived with an entirely different approach—one that blends musical elements with the psychological drama that defined the original. Unfortunately, despite its ambition, the film struggles to find its footing.
Joker: Folie à Deux: A Bold New Approach, but at What Cost?
One of the most anticipated aspects of Folie à Deux was the inclusion of Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, or “Lee” as she’s referred to in the film. Her casting, along with the introduction of Brendan Gleeson as a prison guard in Arkham Asylum, promised a fresh dynamic that could elevate the story. Adding to the intrigue was the revelation that the sequel would incorporate musical sequences—an unconventional choice that seemed both bold and risky.
While this mix of musical fantasy and psychological thriller sounds interesting on paper, the execution leaves much to be desired. The film tries to juggle too many genres and ideas, from courtroom drama to musical interludes, which ultimately results in an incoherent narrative. Todd Phillips wanted the film to feel chaotic like it was being run by the inmates of Arkham, but instead, it often comes across as directionless and confusing.
The Performances: A Saving Grace
Despite its narrative missteps, Joker: Folie à Deux is not without merit. Joaquin Phoenix once again proves why he’s one of the best actors of his generation. His portrayal of Arthur Fleck, now fully transformed into the Joker, is as haunting and mesmerising as ever. Phoenix dives deep into the character’s fractured psyche, delivering a performance that is both unsettling and captivating.
Equally impressive is Lady Gaga, who brings her own flair to the role of Harley Quinn. Her chemistry with Phoenix is electric, and their scenes together are easily the highlights of the film. Gaga’s performance is nuanced, adding depth to a character who could have easily been reduced to a quirky sidekick. Instead, she holds her own, offering a layered portrayal that mixes vulnerability with madness.
Brendan Gleeson’s role as a prison guard is another standout. He shares several intense scenes with Phoenix, and their dynamic provides some of the film’s most grounded moments. Gleeson’s no-nonsense performance contrasts well with Phoenix’s chaotic energy, creating a compelling push-and-pull between the two.
A Disjointed Experience
While the performances elevate the film, the storytelling is where Folie à Deux falters. After a promising and visually stunning opening sequence, the film quickly loses momentum. The first 30-40 minutes are particularly slow, and the narrative feels disconnected, with the musical interludes feeling more like interruptions than integral parts of the story.
There is one standout musical number—The Joker is Me—that manages to hit all the right notes. It’s surreal, bizarre, and perfectly fits the tone of the scene, showing flashes of what the film could have been. However, these moments are rare, and for the most part, the transitions between genres feel jarring rather than seamless.
The film is divided into what feels like distinct “chapters,” marked by fade-to-black transitions that further disrupt the flow. Each segment feels disconnected from the one before it, making it difficult for the audience to stay fully engaged. By the time the film reaches its conclusion, it’s hard not to feel frustrated by the lack of cohesion.
A Lacklustre Conclusion
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of Joker: Folie à Deux is its ending. After the emotional depth and shocking climax of the first film, fans had every right to expect a powerful conclusion. Instead, the film ends on a whimper. It seems to know where it wants to go but can’t quite get there, leaving the audience with an unsatisfying resolution that fails to live up to the brilliance of its predecessor.
Should You Watch It?
If you’re a fan of Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker, Folie à Deux is worth watching for his performance alone. Lady Gaga also brings her A-game, and the two actors have incredible chemistry that makes their scenes a joy to watch. However, if you’re expecting a film as cohesive, emotionally gripping, and intense as the first Joker, you may walk away disappointed.
The film’s ambition is admirable, but its execution is flawed. It’s a movie that tries to do too much and ends up being less than the sum of its parts. If you’re open to experimental filmmaking and don’t mind the disjointed nature of the narrative, you might find something to appreciate. But for most, Joker: Folie à Deux will feel like a missed opportunity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga deliver standout performances.
- Brendan Gleeson adds depth with his compelling role.
- The opening sequence and musical numbers of The Joker is Me are visually and narratively engaging.
- Bold attempt to blend musical elements with psychological drama.
Cons:
- The film struggles with inconsistent tone and pacing.
- Musical interludes feel disconnected from the rest of the narrative.
- The story lacks cohesion, with distinct “chapters” that don’t flow well together.
- Disappointing conclusion that feels flat compared to the first film.
Final Verdict
Joker: Folie à Deux is a curious experiment that doesn’t fully pay off. While the performances are stellar and there are brief moments of brilliance, the film ultimately suffers from its lack of focus. Fans of the original Joker may find it underwhelming, but those who appreciate bold, unconventional filmmaking might still find value in its ambition.
Joker: Folie à Deux is playing now in all major cinemas in Malaysia.
