Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga Star in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” a Theatrical Yet Controversial Sequel

In a dramatic return to the silver screen, Todd Phillips presents “Joker: Folie à Deux,” a sequel that deviates from its predecessor by transforming the narrative into a musical spectacle. Starring Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck and Lady Gaga as Harleen Quinzel, the film intriguingly blends musical elements with courtroom drama.

Phillips, acclaimed for the original 2019 “Joker,” explores new cinematic avenues by integrating musical elements into the storyline. This shift has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the bold creative risks while others question the narrative’s coherence. The movie sees Arthur Fleck, incarcerated and preparing to stand trial for multiple murders, including the sensationalized on-air killing of television host Murray Franklin, played by Robert De Niro.

The film highlights Arthur’s mental transformation with the help of Gaga’s character, Harleen Quinzel, also known as Harley Quinn. Their interactions give rise to outlandish musical sequences that whisk viewers into Arthur’s daydreams, a drastic departure from the tone of the original film.

In “Folie à Deux,” Phillips attempts to critique the fusion of entertainment and real-life events, drawing parallels with the theatrics involved in judicial and political processes in America. “In the States, at least, everything is entertainment,” Phillips stated during the film’s presentation at the Venice Film Festival.

The casting of Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn adds another layer of complexity to this film. Known for her powerful performances, Gaga takes a step back vocally to embody a more vulnerable version of her character, which has left some audiences craving more depth from her role.

Despite ambitious artistic endeavors, critics have lamented the film’s pacing and plot structure, suggesting it falters in delivering a substantive narrative. It is a mix of theatrical flair and somber tone—a style suspicioned to be intentional by Phillips as a form of commentary. “That’s Entertainment!” seems to simultaneously encapsulate and critique the message Phillips aims to deliver.

Joaquin Phoenix, reprising his Oscar-winning role, showcases a physically transformative performance, harking back to his initial depiction of the Joker. While the film provides him the platform to exhibit his distinct acting prowess, some critics argue the portrayal leans heavily into theatricality over substance.

As viewers indulge in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” they encounter a film that challenges perceptions, mixing reality with fantasy through the lens of its main characters’ psychological and emotional struggles. Whether this daring sequel stands as a testament to cinematic innovation or oversteps boundaries is debated among audiences and critics alike.