The first reviews of the much-anticipated sequel to director Todd Phillips’s critically acclaimed ‘Joker’, ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, are here and they are already making waves online as the film gears up for its release in India on Wednesday, October 2.
Returning exactly 5 years after the ‘Joker’ released, the new movie has earned some rather mixed reviews, with some netizens vouching that the film has the potential to split the DC fan base with its highly talked about ending.With the early screenings of the film releasing abroad, early reviews turning up on X indicate that audiences are deeply divided over the film’s bold creative choices, particularly its shocking ending and musical elements.
Fans and critics alike have hailed the performances of both Phoenix, reprising his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, and Lady Gaga, making her debut as Harley Quinn. Many have described the film as “insane,” with some going so far as to warn that the ending will “completely divide the fan base.” One early viewer remarked, “The movie was absolutely insane and very fun. The ending was shocking as well.”Another warned, “The ending is absolute insanity and will completely divide the DC fan base.”
Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harley Quinn has drawn attention for her unique and complex interpretation of the character, with some fans praising her ability to add depth to a well-known figure.
However, not all feedback has been positive. ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’ features significant musical sequences, a stark departure from the dark, gritty tone of the original. While some viewers appreciated the artistic risks, others found the musical elements to be jarring. One fan noted, “Joker 2 would’ve actually been so much better if it wasn’t a musical. The songs were all bad and made zero sense to what was going on in the movie at the time.”
The film’s ending, in particular, has sparked intense discussion. Several viewers have indicated that it could be highly divisive, with one comment on X reading, “That Joker 2 ending is insane!!! Get ready for a lot of discourse.” Others have suggested that the ending detracts from the legacy of the first film, with one viewer labelling it “the worst movie of 2024” and advising fans of the original to steer clear of the sequel.
Despite this, ‘Joker 2’ has also drawn praise from those who enjoy unconventional storytelling. One fan remarked, “If you liked the first Joker, you may not like the sequel. If you didn’t like the first one, you might outright despise this one.”
Adding to the controversy are alleged leaks of the film’s final scenes, which have surfaced online, leading some fans to speculate about the plot’s unexpected twists. While some fans are excited by the leaks, others have expressed disappointment, calling the rumoured ending “trash.”
With the clock ticking down to the film’s early release in India, it is already setting the stage for intense fan debates on the film which is rumoured to be the final one of the franchise.
Joker: Folie A Deux – Official Trailer
