“Joker: Folie à Deux” (2024) – Full Movie Review:
Director: Todd Phillips
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Zazie Beetz, Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener
Joker: Folie à Deux continues the gritty, psychological exploration started by 2019’s Joker, but this time introduces a musical twist that both elevates and complicates the narrative. Directed once again by Todd Phillips, the film delves deeper into the psyche of Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), while also focusing on Harley Quinn (Lady Gaga), whose presence brings a volatile mix of romance and chaos.
Plot:
The story begins after the events of Joker (2019), with Arthur Fleck now imprisoned in Arkham Asylum. His life intersects with that of Dr. Harleen Quinzel, a psychiatrist who gradually becomes entangled in Arthur’s world of madness and eventually transforms into Harley Quinn. The film centers on their toxic relationship, blending psychological drama with musical numbers to depict their descent into shared delusion, or “folie à deux.”
Performances:
- Joaquin Phoenix: Once again delivers a powerhouse performance as Arthur Fleck. His portrayal of the Joker’s continued unraveling is haunting, layered, and intensely captivating. He brings vulnerability and menace in equal measure.
- Lady Gaga: Steals the spotlight in many scenes. Her portrayal of Harley Quinn is both raw and emotional, providing depth to a character who starts as a well-meaning psychiatrist and gradually spirals into Arthur’s world of madness. Her musical numbers are intense, showcasing her vocal and acting range.
- Supporting Cast: Zazie Beetz reprises her role as Sophie, providing a grounded contrast to the film’s chaotic central couple. Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener also deliver strong supporting performances, contributing to the film’s dramatic weight.
Visuals & Direction:
Todd Phillips’ direction continues to lean into the grimy, urban aesthetic that made Joker so distinct. The film captures the gritty, deteriorating atmosphere of Gotham City, while the musical sequences add a surreal quality to the film. These sequences are bold and audacious, though they may not work for all audiences. The blending of psychological thriller and musical genres is unique, but it also creates tonal shifts that might feel jarring.
Themes:
The film explores familiar themes of mental illness, societal alienation, and identity, but this time through the lens of a romantic relationship. The “folie à deux” concept—the shared madness of Arthur and Harley—serves as the film’s emotional core. It examines how two damaged individuals find solace and chaos in each other, all while questioning the boundaries between love and insanity.
Music:
The musical aspect is both a strength and a risk. While it adds a fresh dimension to the Joker’s universe, it can feel out of place in certain moments, disrupting the film’s pacing. However, the numbers are well-executed, with Lady Gaga’s vocal performances standing out, blending into the story in a dreamlike fashion.
Criticism:
- The film’s pacing is slower than its predecessor, which might alienate some viewers. The heavy emphasis on character-driven storytelling and psychological exploration, combined with musical interludes, may not appeal to those expecting the same grounded intensity of Joker (2019).
- The tonal shifts between psychological thriller and musical elements might feel uneven for some viewers, creating an experience that swings between grounded tension and surreal fantasy.
Conclusion:
Joker: Folie à Deux is a bold and divisive sequel. Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga shine in their respective roles, delivering performances that are intense, emotional, and raw. The film’s exploration of madness, love, and identity, combined with its unique musical twist, make it a fascinating watch, though its pacing and tonal shifts might not resonate with all viewers. For those willing to embrace its eccentricities, it offers a dark, unsettling, and thought-provoking experience.
Rating: 8/10
The film is scheduled to be released theatrically in the United States on October 4, 2024, by Warner Bros. Pictures. At their 2024 CineEurope presentation, Warner Bros. announced that the film would be released overseas on October 2, 2024, two days before the domestic premiere.
