Five years ago, Todd Phillips’s Joker introduced us to the unsettling world of Arthur Fleck or The Joker, brilliantly played by Joaquin Phoenix. As a struggling clown and aspiring comedian trapped in a cycle of despair, Arthur’s descent into madness was haunting, exposing the raw, dark facets of human emotions.
Now, Phillips returns with Joker: Folie à Deux, a sequel that takes a daring leap into an uncharted territory. This time, it’s not just a psychological thriller; it’s a musical. Yes, you read that right—a musical! While this bold choice may not cater to every viewer’s taste, it certainly makes for a unique cinematic experience.
Rather than solely spotlighting the chaotic figure of the Joker, Folie à Deux explores Arthur’s life in the aftermath of the first film's events. Joining him on this journey is Lady Gaga as a reimagined Harleen 'Lee' Quinzel, offering a version of the character that feels more grounded and less frenetic than we’ve come to expect.
However, this film may not resonate with everyone. The sedate pace starkly contrasts the pulsating mood of its predecessor, offering only a handful of suspenseful moments. Instead, it unfolds in layers, unravelling Arthur’s psyche. Through this lens, we witness how human conditions—particularly loneliness—can shape and, at times, distort a person's reality.
Now, the question arises: was this sequel truly necessary? The answer is mixed. For those craving a chaotic depiction of the Joker, this film may not satisfy. While the first instalment allowed Phoenix to connect with us on a deeply emotional level, leaving a lasting impact, this sequel takes a different route. We gain insight into Arthur's struggles, but the narrative feels stagnant at times as if it’s not progressing. It’s a departure from the intense journey we experienced before, which might leave viewers yearning for more dynamism.
Todd Phillips skillfully navigates between a grim, dark reality and a vibrant yet violent world, creating a landscape where you’ll encounter the Joker you’ve been longing to see. While the narrative may not provide much in terms of new storylines, the cinematography truly shines. The haunting shadows of Gotham and the oppressive walls of Arkham are captured with stunning artistry, immersing viewers in a visually striking experience that enhances the film's atmosphere.
One thing is certain: Todd Phillips deserves credit for shifting the focus away from the star power of the Joker and honing in on Arthur's character. While Lady Gaga brings a fresh perspective to this dark world, there are moments when she feels more like a supporting piece in the story rather than a strong counterpart to Phoenix. However, Phoenix is undeniably in his element, delivering a performance that anchors the film and draws us deeper into Arthur’s tumultuous journey.
However, when it comes to emotional depth and thrilling moments, the film falls short. Yet, the stunning cinematography and visual impact make it a cinematic experience that definitely deserves to be seen on the big screen.
