Joker: Folie à Deux Review - A Deep Dive into the Sequel

 

The Musical Twist: A Bold New Direction

The sequel to the critically acclaimed "Joker" takes an unexpected turn, embracing a musical format that has caused a stir among fans and critics alike. This bold move sees the film integrating at least 15 reinterpretations of "very well-known" songs, leaning heavily towards being "mostly a jukebox musical". This departure from the gritty realism of its predecessor has set the stage for a unique cinematic experience in Gotham City.

Unexpected song choices

One of the most intriguing aspects of Joker: Folie à Deux is its song selection. The film is said to feature "That's Entertainment" from the 1953 musical "The Band Wagon," a number famously associated with Judy Garland. This choice hints at a blend of classic Hollywood glamor with the dark, twisted world of the Joker. Additionally, the teaser for Lady Gaga's casting was set to Fred Astaire's "Cheek To Cheek," suggesting a potential nod to the golden age of cinema musicals.

Integration of music into the narrative

The musical elements in Joker: Folie à Deux are not mere embellishments but integral to the storytelling. The film uses music to depict the evolving romance and chaotic partnership between Joker and Harley Quinn. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of their shared delusion, with song and dance scenes serving as a means to convey their psychological states. Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga's commitment to authenticity is evident in their decision to sing live on set. They aimed for raw, unpredictable performances that align with their characters' nature. As Phoenix explained, "We didn't want vibrato and perfect notes. We wanted to let the emotion guide our performances to stay true to the moment".

 

Audience reactions to the musical elements

The musical twist in Joker: Folie à Deux has generated significant buzz and divided opinions. Some view it as a refreshing and daring approach to the superhero genre, while others express skepticism about the shift in tone from the first film. The unexpected nature of this creative choice has undoubtedly become the biggest discussion point and source of controversy surrounding the sequel. Critics have offered mixed reviews, with some praising the film's originality and others finding it underwhelming. One critic described it as "a bold and often brilliant sequel," appreciating its departure from typical action set pieces in favor of musical numbers that explore the characters' psyches. However, another reviewer found it "boring" and "a criminal waste of Lady Gaga". Despite the varied reactions, there's a general consensus that Joker: Folie à Deux is charting new territory for comic book adaptations. The musical approach has generated intrigue and discussion, potentially paving the way for more unconventional storytelling in future superhero films. As audiences eagerly await the release of Joker: Folie à Deux, the musical twist promises to deliver a unique cinematic experience that blends the darkness of Gotham City with the allure of classic Hollywood musicals. Whether this bold direction will resonate with viewers remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly set the stage for a sequel that stands apart from its predecessor and challenges the conventions of the genre.

Joaquin Phoenix's Return as Arthur Fleck/Joker

Joaquin Phoenix's return as Arthur Fleck/Joker in Joker: Folie à Deux has caused a stir among critics and fans alike. His performance in the sequel continues to captivate audiences, building upon the foundation laid in the first film while exploring new depths of the character.

Character evolution since the first film

In Joker: Folie à Deux, we see a significant evolution in Arthur Fleck's character. Unlike the first movie, where we witnessed his gradual descent into madness, the sequel presents a more fully realized Joker. Phoenix's portrayal showcases a man who has embraced his alter ego, grappling with the duality of Arthur and the Joker like never before. The film confines Phoenix's Arthur to prison or a courtroom for most of the duration, with brief tastes of freedom and fantasy musical numbers that serve as interior monologs. This setting allows for a deeper exploration of Arthur's psyche, as he navigates the consequences of his actions from the first film.

 

Phoenix's performance and character portrayal

Phoenix's performance in Joker: Folie à Deux has been described as award-worthy, with the actor fully committing to the Joker persona. His portrayal is more controlled and restrained this time, delving deeper into Arthur's psyche while also showcasing his impressive vocal abilities in the musical numbers. The actor's physical transformation continues to have an impact on his performance. Phoenix lost 52 pounds for the role, a process that he suggested informed his portrayal. "The first thing for us was the weight loss," Phoenix said when Joker debuted at the Venice Film Festival. "I think that's really what I started with. And, as it turns out, that then affects your psychology. You start to go mad when you lose that amount of weight in that amount of time". Phoenix's commitment to the role is evident in his handling of the song-and-dance duties, which he performs with panache and feeling. His performance teeters on the edge of insanity throughout, simultaneously chilling and unexpectedly moving.

Balancing Arthur and Joker personas

One of the most intriguing aspects of Phoenix's performance in Joker: Folie à Deux is his ability to balance the Arthur and Joker personas. The film explores the duality of these two sides of the character, with Phoenix delivering a compelling and remarkably physical performance that showcases this internal struggle. The sequel delves deeper into the question of whether Joker and Arthur are two separate personas. In court scenes, Arthur's lawyer argues with the district attorney about this very issue. Phoenix's portrayal reflects this complexity, as he navigates between the meek Arthur and the flamboyant Joker. Throughout the film, we see Phoenix's character grappling with his identity. In one scene, he begs his co-star to give him an honest assessment of the TV movie based on his exploits, which he's been prevented from seeing. This moment highlights the character's fixation on his own celebrity and his struggle to reconcile his past actions with his current situation. As the film progresses, we see Phoenix's character evolve from a quiet, sedated inmate to the flamboyant Joker persona once again. This transformation is not sudden but gradual, with Phoenix skillfully portraying the nuances of this change.

Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn: A Star-Studded Addition

The addition of Lady Gaga to the cast of Joker: Folie à Deux has caused a stir in the entertainment world. Her portrayal of Harley Quinn, or Lee Quinzel as she's known in the film, brings a fresh perspective to the iconic character. Gaga's interpretation strips away some of the more cartoonish elements associated with previous portrayals, focusing instead on a grounded and psychologically complex version of Quinn.

 

Gaga's interpretation of the iconic character

Lady Gaga's approach to Harley Quinn is notably different from what audiences have seen before. Director Todd Phillips revealed that they've removed many of the character's comic book traits, such as her high-pitched voice, accent, and gum-chewing habits. Instead, Gaga brings a subtle yet conniving quality to Lee, creating a character that's both believable and disturbing. Gaga herself has spoken about her personal connection to the role, drawing from her own experiences with mania and chaos to inform her performance. She told Empire magazine, "I worked from a sense-memory perspective: What does it feel like to walk through the world and be… braced, in an intense way?" This approach has resulted in a portrayal that critics have described as "smartly low-key" and "a sly and manipulative malice."

Chemistry with Phoenix

The on-screen relationship between Gaga's Harley Quinn and Joaquin Phoenix's Joker is a central element of Joker: Folie à Deux. Their chemistry has been described as electrifying, with both actors fully committing to their roles. The film explores their shared madness, as referenced in the title, allowing each character to feel uniquely understood by the other. Interestingly, the dynamic between Joker and Harley Quinn in this film is somewhat altered from previous iterations. Both characters are patients at Arkham State Hospital, which changes the power dynamic and manipulation tactics typically associated with their relationship. This new take promises to deliver a more grounded and potentially more terrifying version of their infamous partnership.

Musical contributions to the film

One of the most intriguing aspects of Joker: Folie à Deux is its musical element, and Lady Gaga's involvement brings an extra layer of excitement to this aspect of the film. As a decorated musician, Gaga was well-prepared for the musical numbers, but she approached them from a character perspective rather than as a polished performer. Gaga explained her approach to singing as Harley Quinn, saying, "I worked a lot on the way that I sang to come from Lee, and to not come from me as a performer." She intentionally included "bum notes" and altered her breathing technique to reflect Lee's lack of formal training. This commitment to authenticity extends to her on-set performances with Joaquin Phoenix, where they sang live to capture raw, unpredictable moments. The musical elements in Joker: Folie à Deux are not mere embellishments but integral to the storytelling. They serve as a means to explore the characters' psyches and their evolving relationship. While some critics have praised this bold direction, others have expressed disappointment that Gaga's musical talents weren't utilized more fully in the film. As audiences eagerly await the release of Joker: Folie à Deux, Lady Gaga's portrayal of Harley Quinn stands as one of the most anticipated elements. Her nuanced performance, combined with the film's unique musical approach, promises to deliver a fresh and compelling take on one of DC's most iconic characters.

Todd Phillips' Vision: Expanding the Joker Universe

Todd Phillips, the acclaimed writer/director/producer behind Joker: Folie à Deux, has taken a bold and ambitious approach to expanding the Joker universe. His vision for the sequel pushes creative boundaries and challenges audience expectations, resulting in a unique cinematic experience that sets itself apart from its predecessor and other comic book adaptations.

 

Directorial choices and style

Phillips' directorial choices for Joker: Folie à Deux showcase his growth as a filmmaker since the first Joker film. He has crafted a technically complex and visually stunning movie that blends various genres and styles. The film incorporates elements of courtroom drama, musical, comedy, and psychological thriller, creating a multifaceted narrative that keeps viewers engaged throughout. One of the most striking aspects of Phillips' vision is the integration of musical elements into the story. The director explains, "Most of the music in the movie is really just dialog. It's just Arthur not having the words to say what he wants to say, so he sings them instead." This approach allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' psyches and emotions, with songs like "Get Happy," "For Once in My Life," and "That's Life" conveying the shifting dynamics between Arthur Fleck and Harley Quinn. Phillips' commitment to authenticity is evident in his approach to the musical performances. He aimed for a "rawer, more unstable sound" that fluctuates between euphoria and despair, even if it occasionally required singing off-key. This decision adds to the film's overall sense of unpredictability and chaos, reflecting the mental states of its protagonists.

Balancing fan expectations with artistic vision

While fans of the first Joker film might have expected to see Arthur Fleck fully embracing his role as the Clown Prince of Crime, Phillips has chosen to subvert these expectations. Instead of focusing on heists and criminal exploits, the sequel continues to explore Fleck's backstory and psychological journey. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, but it demonstrates Phillips' commitment to his artistic vision over fan service. The director's approach to the Joker character remains complex and nuanced. Phillips and his team have worked to create a version of Arthur Fleck that is both sympathetic and deeply flawed. This portrayal challenges viewers to grapple with their own perceptions of the character and the societal issues that contribute to his descent into madness.

 

Themes explored in the sequel

Joker: Folie à Deux delves into several thought-provoking themes that expand upon those explored in the first film. One of the central ideas is the concept of shared madness, as suggested by the title. The relationship between Arthur Fleck and Harley Quinn serves as a vehicle to examine how mental illness can be influenced and exacerbated by close personal connections. Another significant theme is the role of media and entertainment in shaping public perception. Phillips comments on the "sportification of all culture," noting how everything from presidential debates to high-profile trials is now treated as entertainment. This critique is woven into the fabric of the film, with Arthur's courtroom antics becoming a media sensation and attracting throngs of supporters. The sequel also continues to explore issues of social inequality and the failures of the mental health care system. By setting much of the film in Arkham Asylum, Phillips provides a stark backdrop against which to examine these themes, highlighting the ways in which society often fails its most vulnerable members. In conclusion, Todd Phillips' vision for Joker: Folie à Deux represents a bold and ambitious expansion of the Joker universe. By blending genres, subverting expectations, and exploring complex themes, Phillips has created a film that stands apart from typical comic book adaptations and challenges viewers to engage with its characters and ideas on a deeper level.

Visual and Technical Aspects

The visual and technical aspects of Joker: Folie à Deux play a crucial role in bringing the twisted world of Gotham City to life. Director Todd Phillips and cinematographer Lawrence Sher have crafted a visually stunning sequel that builds upon the gritty esthetic of the first film while introducing new elements to reflect the evolving narrative.

Cinematography and color palette

Lawrence Sher, who also worked on the first Joker film, returns as the cinematographer for Folie à Deux. The movie is shot entirely with IMAX-certified digital cameras, promising a visually immersive experience for viewers. Sher has cited Francis Ford Coppola's One from the Heart (1982) as a source of visual inspiration, which hints at a more stylized approach to the sequel's look. The color palette of Joker: Folie à Deux continues to play a significant role in storytelling. In the first film, Sher and Phillips used contrasting colors to create depth, separation, and mood. For instance, they employed complementary colors like cyan and red to separate actors from their environment. In Folie à Deux, we can expect a similar approach, with colors used to evoke emotions and reflect the characters' psychological states. One notable aspect of the sequel's visual style is the use of sodium-vapor street lights, which give off a distinct orange-green glow. This lighting choice helps to recreate the atmosphere of Gotham City in the past, adding authenticity to the film's setting.

 

Set design and Gotham City portrayal

The production design team, led by Mark Friedberg, has worked closely with Phillips and Sher to create a cohesive visual world for Joker: Folie à Deux. The film's portrayal of Gotham City continues to be a central element of its visual storytelling. Interestingly, Phillips has chosen to set Gotham City in New York State, contrary to the popular belief that it's located in New Jersey. One of the most iconic locations from the first film, the "Joker Stairs" on West 167th Street in the Bronx, makes a return in the sequel. This location serves as a visual callback to Arthur Fleck's transformation into the Joker, reinforcing the connection between the two films. The Arkham Asylum scenes were filmed at the abandoned Essex County Isolation Hospital in New Jersey, adding an authentic and eerie atmosphere to these crucial sequences. This location choice underscores the film's commitment to grounding its fantastical elements in real-world settings.

Costume and makeup design

Costume designer Arianne Phillips has created a striking look for Lady Gaga's Harley Quinn that differs significantly from previous portrayals of the character. In the first glimpse of Gaga as Dr. Harleen Quinzel, we see her with slicked-back hair, minimal clown makeup, a red tuxedo jacket, and a diamond corset. This more grounded approach to Harley Quinn's appearance aligns with Phillips' overall esthetic for the Joker films. The makeup department, led by makeup designer Nicki Ledermann, has also played a crucial role in bringing the characters to life. Given the vibe of Phillips' movies, the makeup on Gaga's Harley Quinn is much lower-key and more grounded compared to the stylized look Margot Robbie sported as the character in her DCEU films. As for Joaquin Phoenix's Joker, we can expect his iconic makeup to evolve along with the character. The film's approach to makeup and costume design continues to emphasize realism while still capturing the essence of these larger-than-life characters.

Conclusion: The Impact and Legacy of Joker: Folie à Deux

Joker: Folie à Deux has pushed the boundaries of comic book adaptations, offering a unique blend of psychological thriller and musical elements. The film's departure from traditional superhero narratives has sparked discussions about the future of the genre and its potential to explore complex themes. With its star-studded cast, innovative storytelling, and stunning visuals, the sequel has left an indelible mark on cinema, challenging audiences to reconsider their perceptions of iconic characters and the nature of mental illness. As the dust settles, Joker: Folie à Deux will likely be remembered as a bold experiment that dared to reimagine a beloved franchise. Its impact on the superhero genre and filmmaking as a whole remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly opened doors for more daring and unconventional approaches to storytelling. Whether loved or criticized, the film has succeeded in provoking thought and emotion, ensuring its place in cinematic history as a memorable and thought-provoking entry in the Joker saga. ## FAQs Is "Joker: Folie à Deux" classified as a musical? While "Joker: Folie à Deux" isn't a traditional musical, it features scenes where characters express their emotions through song, particularly when dialog alone doesn't suffice. These musical elements are integrated naturally into the film's narrative, reflecting how the characters might genuinely react within their world, rather than performing as if on a Broadway stage. What are some reasons "Joker" received negative reviews? Critiques of "Joker" often highlight that Todd Phillips' direction heavily borrows from Martin Scorsese’s iconic works, such as "The King of Comedy" and "Taxi Driver," which some believe prevents the film from establishing a unique identity. Additionally, the film has been criticized for its superficial treatment of serious themes like mental illness, society, and class, leaving these issues inadequately addressed. Is "Joker: Folie à Deux" a continuation of the earlier film? Yes, "Joker: Folie à Deux" serves as a sequel to the 2019 movie "Joker," featuring Joaquin Phoenix reprising his role alongside new cast member Lady Gaga. Why does "Joker 2" have an R rating? "Joker 2" is rated R due to its depiction of strong violence, pervasive language, some sexual content, and brief full nudity, all of which contribute to the film's mature and intense theme.