Joker: Folie à Deux is a dark musical. That’s as brief as I can describe it, although it is officially described as a jukebox musical. Regardless, it is definitely a departure from its predecessor when it comes to the type of film it is.
Joaquin Phoenix returns to reprise his role as Arthur Fleck in Todd Phillips’ sequel, giving another outstanding performance as the mentally disturbed Joker. Phoenix really embodies the character, appearing extremely emaciated, who, despite his fragile physical nature, withstands brutal beatings in prison by the guards. However, it’s his expressions conveying everything from fear to arrogance to happiness that makes his performance captivating. It would be no surprise if he gets nominated for this role again at the next award season.
This time, Phoenix shares the spotlight with Lady Gaga, who joins him as Joker’s love interest and co-conspirator, Lee Quinzel, better known in the comics as Harley Quinn. Lady Gaga was fantastic in the role. She matched Phoenix perfectly, delivering a mentally disturbed individual who, in many ways, surpasses Joker’s darkness and ambitions. It would be no surprise to see her get nominations for this role as well.
The musical numbers and performances were incredible. It’s what I enjoyed the most about the film. Lady Gaga gives strong and electric solo musical performances, and the duets between Phoenix and her were great, too. Phoenix may not be as strong a vocal performer in the same leagues as Lady Gaga, but it works. Some of the songs featured are “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” “Bewitched,” and “To Love Somebody.”
Although the acting and musical performances were incredible, I wasn’t thrilled with the storyline. This film follows the first film’s events and finds Joker in prison awaiting trial. The prison scenes are where we get more information and interesting storylines for most of the characters, but the parts of the film depicting the trial dragged on a bit too long and became a snoozer. The number of musical performances was also high.
If you enjoy musicals with dark themes, you will enjoy this film, but if you love the original and don’t care too much for musicals, then you might find this film boring.
Joker: Folie à Deux is in theaters now.
