Nearly five years later, Todd Phillips released “Joker: Folie à Deux.” This sequel, however, failed to capture the same allure as “Joker.”
In 2019, Phillips produced the critically acclaimed film “Joker.” This cinematic masterpiece earned numerous prestigious awards, including Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice honors.
The film delved deep into the complexities of mental health, societal neglect and abuse. It did so all while maintaining an intense tension as Arthur Fleck’s character descended into madness.
With its intriguing themes and masterful storytelling, “Joker” opened important conversations about the human psyche, leaving an unforgettable mark on audiences.
“Joker: Folie à Deux” transformed the dark, enigmatic character of Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix, into the centerpiece of a musical—a shift so infuriating many fans reportedly left theaters mid-showing.
“Joker: Folie à Deux” begins with Arthur locked up in Arkham Asylum, awaiting trial for the murders he committed in the first film. During his time there, he falls in love with fellow patient Lee Quinzel, played by Lady Gaga, who worships his Joker persona.
The movie centers heavily on music. In the original “Joker,” Arthur found comfort through Hollywood musicals. “Folie à Deux” revisits this coping mechanism through song and dance, echoing his use of comedy as an escape in the first film.
Interestingly, the concept for this musical sequel originated from a dream Joaquin Phoenix had. One night, Phoenix envisioned Arthur Fleck, dressed in his iconic clown attire, performing onstage and singing. This planted the seed for the film’s distinctive approach.
“Joker: Folie à Deux” failed to undergo the necessary, early audience feedback stages. Todd Phillips proceeded with the film entirely on his own, with no test screenings to gauge audience reactions.
Lady Gaga, who played a pivotal role in the film, had even signed on before the script was finished. Little room was left for creative adjustments or corrections during the development process.
As a result, the movie met contrasting reactions. “Folie à Deux” earned a dismal D on CinemaScore—the lowest ever for a comic book film. This further underscores its failure to resonate with fans.
The absence of test screenings likely contributed to this outcome. There was no opportunity to identify the narrative and tonal shifts–consequently, alienating many of the original “Joker’s” fans.
The commercial consequences of this risk are also significant. “Joker: Folie à Deux” needs to gross at least $450 million globally just to break even.
The original “Joker,” grossed over $1 billion globally. With the initial reception of “Joker: Folie à Deux” being far from positive, Warner Bros. faces the prospect of losing upwards of $150 million.
Despite its artistic ambition and the bold decision to turn Arthur Fleck’s dark world into a musical landscape, “Joker: Folie à Deux” struggled to recapture the raw, masterfully crafted tone which made the original so compelling.
Fans who had been captivated by the psychological depth and intensity of “Joker” are now left unsatisfied. Fans were yearning for the haunting atmosphere of the first film, but left instead feeling disconnected from the sequel’s tonal shift.
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