The highly anticipated sequel to “Joker,” titled “Joker: Folie à Deux,” has arrived in theaters, sparking a wave of mixed reactions among critics and viewers. Directed once again by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix alongside Lady Gaga, the film has become a focal point of intense debate regarding its narrative approach and execution.
A Bold Proposition
“Joker: Folie à Deux” continues the story of Arthur Fleck, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix, who is now confined in Arkham Asylum. There, he encounters Dr. Harleen Quinzel, played by Lady Gaga, and together they embark on a journey that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. The film incorporates musical elements, a decision that has surprised many and become a source of controversy.
Divided Critiques
The film’s reception has been mixed. According to FilmAffinity, “Joker: Folie à Deux” has an average rating of 5.4 out of 10, based on over 7,600 user reviews.
Meanwhile, Rotten Tomatoes shows a 32% score on the Tomatometer, reflecting a predominantly negative critical reception. Rotten Tomatoes
Critic Carlos Boyero, in his analysis for Cadena SER, labeled the film as a “bad Roman movie” and criticized its script, describing it as incoherent with absurd characters. He also mentioned moments he considered “infamous” in the narrative. Cadena SER
On the other hand, some critics have highlighted positive aspects, such as the action sequences and historical setting. However, the majority agree that the sequel does not reach the emotional depth or impact of the original film.
Notable Performances
Paul Mescal’s portrayal has been praised, with emphasis on his ability to convey the emotional complexity of Lucius Verus. Nonetheless, some critics point out that, despite his performance, the script does not provide sufficient material to fully develop his character.
Conclusion
“Gladiator II” has generated mixed opinions among critics and audiences. While some appreciate the continuation of the epic story and notable performances, others feel that the film does not live up to its predecessor. As always, cinematic appreciation is subjective, and it is up to the viewer to form their own opinion.