‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ has emerged as one of the most contentious films of 2024, receiving criticism from both fans and reviewers for failing to meet expectations as a sequel to Todd Phillips’ ‘Joker’ from 2019. The film attempts to present a fresh perspective on Batman’s iconic nemesis and the notorious Harley Quinn, but its musical format has left many disappointed, a sentiment not entirely surprising.
From the outset, many viewers were sceptical about the need for a sequel to ‘Joker’, a film that initially sparked debate before its release. The musical elements introduced in this follow-up feel unnecessary, often overshadowing potential narrative opportunities. Compounding this issue is the fact that another Batman-related project, ‘The Penguin’, is receiving significantly more acclaim. The decision to create a sequel appears to be driven primarily by the desire for profit rather than artistic merit.
Image Courtesy: People
The first film established a grounded narrative that distanced itself from the conventional superhero tropes associated with Batman. Although it generated significant controversy regarding its themes, these discussions inadvertently contributed to its success. Many felt that the conclusion of ‘Joker’ was a fitting end to its story, and the notion of a sequel seems more like a bid to replicate its box office success than a natural progression of the narrative.
Critics have noted that ‘Folie à Deux’ feels forced, with scenes serving as superficial callbacks to the original film. Harley Quinn’s role seems reduced to a marketing strategy, especially with Lady Gaga’s casting, rather than an authentic exploration of her character. The film hints at interesting narrative possibilities, such as the commentary on Arthur Fleck’s portrayal as a misunderstood hero, but fails to explore them deeply.
Image Courtesy: People
Overall, ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ has struggled to establish a coherent story, with its musical elements dragging out the runtime without adding substantial value. Audiences are left questioning the film’s direction, especially when compared to the success of other Gotham-based narratives that focus on character development and storytelling rather than gimmicks.
–Farheen Ali