Critics Deliver Mixed Reviews for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’

The much-anticipated sequel “Joker: Folie à Deux,” directed by Todd Phillips, has hit theaters, featuring Joaquin Phoenix reprising his role as Arthur Fleck and Lady Gaga joining the cast as Lee Quinzel, also known as Harley Quinn. The film attempts to blend elements of a courtroom drama, supervillain musical, and a gritty prison narrative. However, early reviews indicate that it may have missed the mark.

Critics’ impressions have been largely negative. Jake Coyle remarked that the film is “theoretically interesting but a curiously dull one,” while David Fear‘s review in Rolling Stone stated, “‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ Has a Message for Fans: Go F-ck Yourselves.” Nick Shager described the film as “So Bad and So Boring It’s Absolutely Shocking.” Another review by Johnny Oleksinski criticized the film for its seemingly pointless musical elements, where “Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix sing for no reason in a pointless sequel.”

The film has been described as failing to capitalize on its bold choices, with scenes either overstaying their welcome or being too brief to deliver any meaningful impact. Manohla Dargis called it “a dour, unpleasant slog,” though Liz Shannon Miller of Consequence noted some engaging moments driven by passionate performances from the lead actors.

“Folie à Deux” continues the story of Arthur Fleck, who has lost his infamous cackle while incarcerated, as he forms a bond with Lee Quinzel through music therapy sessions. Critics have pointed out that while the film introduces new elements, it rehashes much of the first movie’s narrative without adding substantial new insights.

Amidst the criticism, the film’s musical numbers, featuring old-school pop standards, have been noted as highlights, benefiting from the chemistry between Gaga and Phoenix. However, Justin Clark from Slant Magazine criticized the film’s “cinematic centrism,” which sees it grappling with its own unwillingness to fully commit to its more controversial or comedic aspects.

Despite the lackluster reviews, the film presents an evolved narrative with moments of hope and sweetness, contrasting the darkness that characterized its predecessor. Critics have acknowledged the movie’s ability to embed a heightened, cartoonish quality into its storytelling but noted it misses the chance to fully embrace its musical potential.