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Bold “Joker: Folie à Deux, (Movie Review.)” Misses mark but still Compelling!

Todd Phillips directed and co-wrote “Joker: Folie à Deux,” which stars Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener. This sequel follows the consequences of the events from the first film. The Joker is awaiting trial for the crimes he committed.

As a fan of “Joker,” which was a standout for me in 2019, I was naturally drawn to this sequel. However, my initial lukewarm reaction to the trailer at Cinemacon was quickly overshadowed by the film’s stunning cinematography. Despite some reservations about the story, the visual allure of the film was undeniable, and it piqued my interest. 

The first two-thirds of this movie was intriguing. We follow Arthur’s struggle with his personality and his journey dealing with an unexpected new friend and a newfound love for music. The musical aspect can, for the most part, make or break this film, but I didn’t mind it because it was a bold take on Joker’s/Arthur’s hallucinatory take on his potential happily ever after. Phoenix delivers a strong performance again, while Lady Gaga gives a decent take on Harley Quinn. Their chemistry is present, and I am okay with the musical numbers. I thought some aspects were brilliant. For instance, the selected numbers depicted Joker’s and/or Harley’s state of mind and mood well enough. I found it fascinating how they both had raspier vocals and sang out of tune during their non-makeup scenes while their voices were in tune during the dream sequences. 

The third act, for the most part, is a court drama that chronicles the first movie's events.  -The Latino Slant

The take on celebrity fans also compelled me. The third act, for the most part, is a court drama that chronicles the first movie’s events. And this is where it gets a little messy. Certain circumstances develop, and the Joker character takes an unneeded arc because it detracts from everything that occurred in the 2019 film. I wasn’t fond of the ending and everything that happened in the last 15 minutes, but I respect the bold decision to do it. 

The cinematography was stunning with its desaturated, gloomy color palette (except in the dream sequences), and the score was great too. So I wasn’t too disappointed when the credits started rolling. I was entertained enough but not blown away. I wasn’t overly disappointed because, at the end of the day, the film delivered exactly what the trailer said it would. 

Overall, “Joker: Folie à Deux” is a film that takes bold creative risks. While it may not hit every mark, the solid performances and daring direction make it a compelling watch. 

6/10.