Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) Movie Review | Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga Shine

Director: Todd Phillips
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Zazie Beetz, Brendan Gleeson
Release Date: October 10, 2024

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Introduction
Joker: Folie à Deux marks the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Joker (2019). Directed by Todd Phillips, this film explores the complex psyche of Arthur Fleck, brilliantly portrayed once again by Joaquin Phoenix. The addition of Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn injects fresh energy into this dark psychological drama. Set against the backdrop of Arthur’s ongoing descent into madness, the film explores themes of love, madness, and societal dysfunction.

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Plot & Screenplay

Building on the dark, chaotic world of the original, Folie à Deux delves deeper into Arthur’s fractured mind, particularly focusing on his evolving relationship with Harley Quinn. After the events of Joker, Arthur, now institutionalized in Arkham Asylum, meets Harley, a psychiatrist whose obsession with him spirals into madness. Their toxic bond is central to the narrative, mirroring the “folie à deux” concept — shared psychosis between two people. While the first Joker was a character study, this sequel transforms into a musical, with Lady Gaga’s Quinn adding an operatic intensity to the unfolding drama.

The screenplay is full of introspective moments, interspersed with musical sequences that reflect Arthur’s internal chaos. These surreal, dream-like musical numbers could divide audiences — some may find them a fascinating exploration of the characters’ psyche, while others might see them as distracting from the gritty tone of the first film. Nonetheless, the risky genre-blending is commendable, especially in how it challenges the superhero film formula.

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Direction & Cinematography

Todd Phillips continues to imbue his vision of Gotham with a bleak, oppressive atmosphere. The cinematography, helmed by Lawrence Sher, plays with color and shadow to symbolize Arthur and Harley’s mental states. Fleck’s world is drenched in muted tones, while scenes involving Harley are more vibrant, reflecting her erratic energy. The contrast in visuals perfectly captures the evolving dynamic between the two, as their descent into chaos intensifies.

Phillips’ decision to make the film part musical is bold. The musical numbers, though unexpected, are intricately choreographed and serve to illustrate the psychological rupture experienced by the characters. The sequences take on a dreamlike quality, blending Gotham’s gritty realism with surreal, theatrical elements. However, some audiences may struggle with the abrupt tonal shifts between realism and fantasy.

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Performances

Joaquin Phoenix is once again mesmerizing as Arthur Fleck. He brings a vulnerability to the character that is equal parts terrifying and sympathetic. His portrayal of the Joker’s continued unraveling is haunting, capturing both the fragility and menace that made his performance in the first film so compelling. The weight Phoenix carries in balancing emotional complexity with raw madness is a testament to his deep understanding of the character.

Lady Gaga‘s performance as Harley Quinn is equally captivating. She plays the role with a mix of manic energy and tragic vulnerability, making her Harley a fascinating contrast to Phoenix’s brooding Joker. Gaga’s musical background shines through in the film’s songs, but it’s her acting that truly leaves an impression, embodying a woman slowly succumbing to her obsession.

Supporting performances from Zazie Beetz and Brendan Gleeson add depth to the story. Beetz’s return as Sophie Dumond gives a human grounding to Arthur’s chaotic world, while Gleeson delivers a commanding presence as a mysterious figure within Arkham, adding tension to the unfolding drama.

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Soundtrack & Sound Design

The soundtrack, composed by Hildur Guðnadóttir, plays a crucial role in setting the film’s mood. Guðnadóttir, who won an Academy Award for her work on Joker, returns with a haunting score that seamlessly blends orchestral compositions with the musical elements introduced by Lady Gaga. The result is a soundtrack that feels emotionally charged and deeply unsettling, reinforcing the psychological undertones of the film.

Sound design, too, plays a key role, especially in the musical sequences where sound effects blur with the score, immersing the audience in Arthur’s disturbed mental state. The contrast between moments of quiet tension and explosive soundscapes is effectively utilized to heighten the film’s emotional impact.

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Cultural Impact & Reception

As with the first Joker film, Folie à Deux is bound to spark discussion about its portrayal of mental illness and societal breakdown. While the original was praised for its exploration of these themes, it also faced criticism for its bleak outlook. This sequel amplifies the intensity of these discussions by introducing the volatile relationship between Joker and Harley, which many interpret as a commentary on co-dependent, toxic relationships.

The film’s divisive nature will likely generate polarizing reactions, with some praising its artistic ambition and others questioning the need for its musical interludes. Early reviews have been a mixed bag, with critics either celebrating it as a bold continuation of Arthur Fleck’s story or dismissing it as overindulgent. Regardless, Joker: Folie à Deux is a film that demands to be talked about, much like its predecessor.

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Box Office Predictions

Given the success of Joker, which grossed over $1 billion globally, expectations are high for Folie à Deux. The film is expected to perform well, especially with the draw of Lady Gaga, whose fanbase will likely boost ticket sales. However, the film’s genre-blending and musical elements might alienate some of the original’s audience. Nonetheless, with an October release, its darker themes align well with the Halloween season, potentially attracting a wider audience.

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Conclusion

Joker: Folie à Deux is an audacious follow-up to one of the most talked-about films in recent memory. With stellar performances from Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, combined with Todd Phillips’ bold directorial choices, the film is sure to leave a lasting impression. While its genre shift into musical territory may not be for everyone, those willing to embrace its experimental nature will find a thought-provoking and visually striking continuation of Arthur Fleck’s story.

Verdict: A daring sequel that mixes psychological drama with musical flair — not for everyone, but a bold step forward in comic book storytelling.

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Call to Action:
Love it or hate it, Joker: Folie à Deux is a film you can’t afford to miss. Watch the trailer on Youtube and book your tickets now for an unforgettable cinematic experience.