Joker: Refund for two

Review of Joker: Folie a Deux - 2.5/5

By Abby Paterson

Joker: Folie a Deux, directed by Todd Philips, is a highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 thriller, Joker. The film delves deeper into the complex dual psyche of Arthur Fleck/Joker (Joaquin Phoenix) as he falls for the deluded Harleen Quinzel (Lady Gaga) during their time at Arkham Asylum.

The film stumbles to deliver the same raw emotional intensity as its predecessor, leaving audiences baffled at the disjointed plot line. Intense compelling performances and psychologically distressing scenes were discredited by inappropriately timed musical numbers, undermining the integrity of a once alluring film.

The plot continues where the previous Joker left off, with Arthur Fleck now facing the harsh reality of his crimes. He awaits trial at Arkham Asylum where he meets the obsessive Harleen Quinzel. Her deep infatuation with Arthur Fleck’s delusions leads them into a dangerous, toxic and co-dependant relationship.

The relationship of the two characters is further portrayed in the title of the film ‘Folie a Deux’ which is a French term meaning ‘madness of two’. The title demonstrates Arthur Fleck/Joker and Harleen Quinzel’s shared delusions as they gradually descend into joint psychosis portrayed by vibrant, fanciful musical performances throughout the film.

Visually captivating shots are a theme throughout this thoughtfully framed sequel. Intimate close-up camera shots are used frequently to show deeper understanding into Arthur Fleck’s multifaceted psyche. Joaquin Phoenix’s compelling performance cannot go without credit, as he provides another immersive perspective into his dual character of Arthur Fleck/Joker.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Lady Gaga as she delivers a rather unconvincing portrayal as Harleen Quinzel. The once eccentric character seems to fall flat even when singing. Dejectedly nothing could redeem this disjointed film from Todd Phillips’ inconsistent directing and lack of balance between the two contrasting genres.

Overall, Joker: Folie a Deux is a brave attempt to challenge the narrative of Joker. Through blending musical elements with a dark psychological thriller, the two opposing tones ultimately leave the film lacking depth and cohesion. Joaquin Phoenix’s performance however cannot be faulted as he returns to his transformative role as Joker, bringing a new nuance to the sequel.

With exceptional visuals and high production quality this sequel had all the right elements for success, but the lack of any clear direction from Todd Phillips is what ultimately causes this film’s demise. Exploration into the dark themes which made the original Joker successful were lost. Instead out of place, overwhelming musical numbers deducted from meaningful scenes, instead of enhancing them.

Joker: Folie a Deux crumbles under the prospect of its own ambition. Leaving many fans devastated, regretting purchasing a ticket in the first place.

Released on 4 October 2024, you can view it in locations across Scotland such as Cineworld, Vue and Odeon.