Joker: Folie à Deux – A musical journey into madness
Arthur Fleck’s return to the spotlight
In “Joker: Folie à Deux”, director Todd Phillips attempts to blend dark irreverence with musical elements, creating a sequel that feels both ambitious and grounded. Arthur Fleck, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix, is back, but this time he’s facing trial for his crimes. Arthur, now a shadow of his former self, resides in Arkham State Hospital, living a monotonous life filled with despair. His daily routine involves skulking down the corridor with a bucket of pee, a grim reminder of his current state.
Despite his miserable existence, Arthur remains a notorious figure. His infamy stems from the live television murder of late-night talk-show host Murray Franklin, an act that has cemented his place in the public consciousness. Among his admirers is Lee Quinzel, played by Lady Gaga, an inmate with a desperate gaze who idolizes Arthur. Her adoration for him is palpable, and she sees him not as a madman but as the Joker.
The trial of the century
Arthur’s trial is set to be a media spectacle, broadcast live for the world to see. In preparation, Arthur participates in a jailhouse interview with tabloid-TV figure Paddy Meyers, played by Steve Coogan. During the interview, Arthur breaks into song, performing “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered” from the 1940 musical “Pal Joey.” This unexpected musical moment sets the tone for the film, as Arthur continues to sing classic tunes throughout.
The trial revolves around a single question: Is Arthur insane? His lawyer, portrayed by Catherine Keener, argues that Arthur’s crimes were committed by a deranged alter ego, a split personality that takes over. On the other hand, Gotham City district attorney Harvey Dent, played by Harry Lawtey, contends that Arthur is simply a sick individual who should be held accountable for his actions.
A musical exploration of identity
The film’s opening sequence, a mock ’40s Warner Bros. cartoon, foreshadows the central debate of Arthur’s split personality. This theme was already explored in the first “Joker” film, where Arthur was depicted as a disturbed individual rather than a larger-than-life villain. The sequel attempts to delve deeper into this duality, but it struggles to capture the same magic.
In “Joker,” Arthur’s transformation into the Joker was marked by a sense of newfound power, epitomized by his dance in a grungy public bathroom. This moment of rebirth in violence was a defining scene. In “Folie à Deux,” musical numbers aim to achieve a similar effect, lifting characters and audiences alike. However, the film falls short of delivering the same emotional impact.
The promise and pitfalls of a musical sequel
The casting of Lady Gaga as Lee Quinzel seemed promising, given her talent and presence. However, her character is underutilized, and her musical moments lack the rapture she brought to “A Star Is Born.” The film’s song choices, while nostalgic, fail to elevate the narrative. Notable exceptions include a rendition of the Bee Gees’ “You Don’t Know What It’s Like” and Gaga’s powerful performance of “Gonna Build a Mountain.”
Phillips and co-writer Scott Silver could have chosen a more daring array of songs to match the audacious concept of a musical sequel. The supreme needle drop in “Joker,” Gary Glitter’s “Rock and Roll Part 2,” set a high bar that “Folie à Deux” struggles to meet.
A cautious sequel
“Joker: Folie à Deux” is a lengthy film, clocking in at two hours and 18 minutes, yet its plot is surprisingly sparse. Arthur’s time in Arkham, his relationship with Lee, and his trial form the core of the narrative. The film’s cautious approach, likely influenced by the criticisms of the first “Joker,” results in a sequel that feels overly safe.
Phillips’ decision to tone down the darker elements of Arthur’s character diminishes the film’s impact. Arthur, now a singing-and-dancing puppet clown, lacks the dangerous edge that made the original film so compelling. While audiences may still flock to see “Folie à Deux,” the film’s cautious nature leaves much to be desired.
Final thoughts
“Joker: Folie à Deux” is an ambitious attempt to blend musical elements with the dark world of Arthur Fleck. However, the film’s cautious execution and underutilization of its cast result in a sequel that falls short of its potential. While it offers moments of intrigue and nostalgia, it ultimately lacks the boldness and emotional depth that made the original “Joker” a standout.
For those interested in exploring the film further, you can watch the trailer for Joker: Folie à Deux and delve into the world of Arthur Fleck once more.