Imagine a film where American Psycho meets The Singing Detective in a twisted, surreal musical, with the dark undercurrents of La La Land‘s dreams versus reality. That’s the vibe Joker: Folie à Deux aims for, blending the haunting chaos of a psychopath’s mind with the dazzling, often illusory world of song and dance. Picture the chilling detachment of Patrick Bateman, but instead of Wall Street, it’s Gotham’s underbelly, where madness meets melody, and violence unfolds to a show-stopping score. It’s a psychological trip that taps into both the beauty and horror of losing one’s grip on reality.
With a star-studded cast and gripping performances, Joker: Folie à Deux will keep you engaged, even if the plot stumbles along the way. If you’re a fan of Phoenix and Gaga or intrigued by the idea of a “psychopath musical,” then give this twisted tale a go. But for all its boldness, it still can’t quite live up to the electrifying originality of the first. Joker: Folie à Deux is released in the UK and US on 4 October 2024.
The story
Joker: Folie à Deux picks up where the original left off, following Arthur Fleck’s trial for the string of murders he committed in Gotham. This time, we watch as Arthur wrestles with his Joker persona and the vulnerable man he used to be. Lady Gaga steps into the role of Harley Quinn, a psychiatric patient who meets Arthur during music therapy, and their relationship spirals into an intense and disturbing love story.
Arthur’s lawyer argues that he’s mentally ill, suffering from a split personality due to years of abuse. Meanwhile, the prosecutor wants him sentenced to death, believing he’s fully aware of his actions. The conflict between these two sides is what drives the movie, with Arthur caught in the middle. Does he embrace the chaos of his Joker persona, or does he try to reclaim his humanity? The courtroom scenes bring tension, but the plot ultimately feels confined and repetitive, especially during Arthur’s time in prison.
The trailer
The verdict
Joker: Folie à Deux is an ambitious follow-up, blending musical numbers with dark psychological themes, earning the nickname as the “psychopath La La Land.” Yet the film feels torn between these two identities, leaving audiences unsure whether to be thrilled or serenaded. Its musical moments, though inventive, don’t fully take flight, and the storyline can feel bogged down by repetition.
That said, Phoenix and Gaga are magnetic together, and their performances elevate the film beyond its structural shortcomings.
The chemistry between Phoenix and Gaga is electrifying (although not quite as Bradley Cooper and Gaga in A Star is Born). Their scenes together have a spark, but unfortunately, they’re kept apart for long stretches of the film, which can leave the audience feeling unsatisfied. Gaga, as Harley Quinn, brings a manipulative side to her role, almost outshining Phoenix at times. But the film doesn’t give her character the depth she deserves. Harley feels like a missed opportunity for more. Maybe it will be explored in a sequel.
I was eagerly anticipating a scene of Gaga and the Joker dancing together on the iconic steps, only to realise by the end of the film that it was created solely for the poster and trailer.
Despite the film’s flaws, the opening scenes are a highlight, with a clever Warner Bros. cartoon recap setting the tone for what’s to come. A talented supporting cast, including Brendan Gleeson as a prison guard and Catherine Keener as Arthur’s lawyer, adds weight to the narrative. But much like its predecessor, Joker: Folie à Deux feels claustrophobic and oddly flat at points, never quite reaching the heights of the original.
I’ve got mixed feelings about Joker: Folie à Deux. On one hand, Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga deliver powerhouse performances. Both are equally talented as actors and singers, so pairing them together in this much-anticipated sequel promised something spectacular. But the final product? It’s a bit like a roller-coaster that sometimes stalls halfway up the hill.
The film grapples with its own identity. Is it a musical or a psychological thriller? The film-makers didn’t seem to fully commit to either, leaving me (and likely many other viewers) wondering, “What exactly am I watching?” Yet the dedication from the actors, particularly Phoenix, is undeniable. His portrayal of Joker is once again a full-body transformation, complete with a “crazy diet” to capture Joker’s skeletal frame. Phoenix himself has admitted, “I probably shouldn’t do this again,” highlighting the physical and emotional toll the role has taken.
For mums and teens, it’s important to note that this is no light-hearted musical. It’s a dark and intense journey into the minds of two deeply disturbed characters. Older teens and adults who appreciated the first Joker film will find plenty to enjoy, but this one’s not for the faint-hearted.